Write a commentToday, Wednesday, June 5, the Fulton Public Library unveiled a new historic marker honoring its history.
The new plaque, funded by a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, honors the historic integrity of the library’s building, which was added to the National Historic Registry in 1999.
“The Fulton Public Library has been dedicated to serving the City of Fulton and the surrounding communities since its founding in 1895,” said Caroline Chatterton, director of the Fulton Public Library. “This library has seen a lot of change over the years, but remains a symbol of literacy development, lifelong learning, and community connection here in Fulton.”
The library was originally housed in Falley Seminary, and then a small room above Watson Drug Store. Its current building was constructed in 1905-1906 with funding from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.
Over the years, the Fulton Public Library has been, in the words of Fulton Mayor Jim Rice, a “cultural hub” for the community that “continues to modernize itself to meet the needs of each new generation.” The new plaque encourages the community to honor that history while also stepping into the future. Outside of its books, the library also offers personal care kits filled with hygiene items for those in need, book clubs for all ages to help cultivate community, two weekly pre-K story times, and various community events throughout the year, like movie night on the lawn.
Brittney Jerred of Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay’s office noted the “synergy and love” around the institution. The gardens in front of the library are maintained by the Friends of the Fulton Public Library with assistance from the Fulton Garden Club. Jerred presented the library with a citation honoring the new historic marker from Assemblyman Barclay, who could not attend today’s ceremony.
Bill Pomeroy, founder and trustee of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation which provided funding for the historical marker, said in a congratulatory letter, “At the Pomeroy Foundation, one of our main initiatives is to help people celebrate their community’s history… We feel strongly that markers help educate the public, encourage pride of place, and promote tourism.”
We at iHeart Oswego encourage you to visit this historic building to both enjoy its past and participate in building its future. The Fulton Public Library is hosting its 2nd annual Book Fest this coming Saturday, from 10am to 3pm. Learn more about that event here.
