This week in Alaskan History: The George C. Thomas Memorial Library was opened to the public on August 4, 1909. The library was turned over to the City of Fairbanks in 1942. The FNSB was created in 1964 and four years later the City of Fairbanks gave the Thomas Memorial Library to the Borough.
George C. Thomas Becomes Aware of Fairbanks’ Lack of A Library
Fairbanks came into being in 1903 after prospectors found gold in the area. Although the new town had several bars, it lacked books and other reading materials. News of Fairbanks’ lack of books reached the Pennsylvania newspapers. It caught the attention of George C. Thomas, a Philadelphia banker, philanthropist, and book collector.
Donation of Funds To Build A Library In Fairbanks
Thomas read about St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Fairbanks whose main structure doubled as a reading room to offer more wholesome recreation for the local miners. The reading room contained 1,500 books and magazines. After reading about St. Matthew’s reading room, Thomas decided to donate funds to build a separate library. Furthermore, he funded it with $1,00 annually for three years.
The Library Opens
Fortunately, the George C. Thomas Memorial Library was much more spacious than the St. Matthew’s reading room. It opened to the public on August 4, 1909. Shortly after the library opened, Thomas passed away. Following Thomas’ passing, the library’s property and building stayed in St. Matthew’s ownership until 1942. In 1942, St. Matthew’s turned the library over to the City of Fairbanks.
A Fire Partially Destroys The Library’s Collection
Unfortunately, a fire destroyed one-third of the library’s collection in 1949. The community of Fairbanks came together to restore the library. Over time the library’s collection grew again and eventually its hours were restored.
The FNSB Takes Over The Library From the City of Fairbanks
In 1968, four years after the creation of the Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB), the City of Fairbanks gave its library powers and the Thomas Memorial Library to the FNSB.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Info Source: FNSB.gov
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
