ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY OF THE DEPOT PUBLIC LIBRARY

THROCKMORTON, TEXAS

(UPDATED MAY 2003)

In 1990 a small group of interested people met to discuss the need for a public library. It was learned that Throckmorton was one of twelve counties in the state without a public library. A Board of Directors was created who laid the basic foundation, including writing a constitution and by-laws. Regularly scheduled meetings commenced in September 1994 and the tax exempt status was granted under Section 501(c)(3) in 1995.

The Board started looking for an available building. The old train depot building belonged to the city and was being used for storage. An architect visiting from Michigan was intrigued with the idea of creating a library in the abandoned train depot. He examined the building from top to bottom and made complete architectural drawings and recommendations for renovations. The City Council granted a 99-year lease on the building and volunteers commenced with interior renovations.

In 1995 the Library Board initiated a publicity campaign resulting in a flood of book donations as well as cash donations. A local carpenter volunteered to build the Library’s first shelf units, using materials purchased with donations. Used shelving, a desk, tables and chairs were acquired. Faithful volunteers sorted and processed books and helped with maintenance tasks, enabling the Library to open for business on a regular basis in September 1996. A weekly column in the local newspaper kept the public informed of Library progress and happenings. Successful fund raisers included a Halloween Carnival booth; Fall, Christmas, and Spring tours of local homes; a dinner theater; a Spring style show; softball tournaments and a quilt show. A children’s story-time and reading program have been held each summer in addition to “July for Kids”, a twice weekly program of children’s activities funded by “The Children’s Fund” and the Texas Commission on the Arts. A story time for 3-5 year old children has been held weekly during the year 2003.

The Depot Public Library received a grant in 1997 (and again in 1998) from the Texas Book Festival to be used for purchase of books and audio-visual materials. The Throckmorton Independent School District received a TIF (Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund) Grant which enabled them to furnish the Library with computers and printers and technical staff for installation, advice and support. The Library received a “New” Establishment Grant in 1999 and the Board hired the first Librarian. Additional computers and new shelving and furniture have been purchased. Renovations and building improvements continue as local funds become available.

The Library is rapidly becoming a popular location for meetings of local groups and organizations. Library hours have been adjusted to make computers more accessible to school children. Book circulation is increasing.

The greatest help has come from gifted volunteers who all share the dream and enthusiasm. The group who got together in 1990 is still involved on the Board of Directors. Recognizing that the Library is a significant asset for their county, residents are providing steadily increasing encouragement and support. Throckmorton no longer has an abandoned train depot: it has a Library.