Feature Article on Amos Memorial
Library. Topic: DOWNTOWN/BUILDINGS & ORGANIZATION
Written by Rich Wallace
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A LIBRARY...Pg 2 |
| The most difficult period in
the history of the library began with a decision that was initially met with much
approval. In 1879, the library trustees accepted a proposal from the trustees of the Monumental Building to move
to that location. However, the fine print of the agreement permitted the building trustees
to open the library "...as soon as the funds at their command will justify them in
doing so." After the move was completed, the building trustees refused to open
the library, citing financial problems. Literary darkness descended over Sidney for seven
long years. The library reopened in 1886 under the guidance of the Hon William Wyman, who had just retired as Probate Judge. Wyman was a fascinating character. Born in County Wexford, Ireland, he left home at age ten, and worked as a cabin boy on sailing ships for some time. Tiring of the sea, he made his way to Cincinnati, learned the plastering trade, and eventually moved to Sidney. He helped construct the courthouse in 1881. Wyman subsequently taught school in Orange Township. Prior to being elected Probate Judge, he served as Mayor of Sidney. Wyman was responsible for drafting the first library rules and regulations. Only inhabitants of Sidney over 14 years of age "known to the librarian to be responsible," or if unknown, "on the written certificate to such responsibility of a known citizen" could withdraw books to read. If one volume in a set was lost, the rules required the borrower to replace the entire set. The problems with the Monumental Building were not over, however. The building trustees wished to expand the library in June, 1898. At that point, the library association still used only the east portion of the second floor. The rest was occupied by the Neal Post of the G.A.R., a group of civil war veterans equivalent to the American Legion of today. The expansion plans were unveiled for the men and they were asked to vacate the second floor. The vets refused, and the battle was on.
A turn of the century
interior view of the library [ Back ] [ Next ] [ Up ] [ New Search ] |
