A History of the Somers Library and Foundation
History of the Somers Library
The inaugural library in Somers was established by Ruth Tompkins in 1875. Initially housed on the second floor of District Schoolhouse Number 2, it started with just a single shelf of books. A notable portion of these books originally belonged to Ralph Waldo Emerson's personal library. Ruth Tompkins' sister, Susan, had married John Emerson,, who was the nephew of Ralph Waldo Emerson. Through this family connection, Ralph Waldo Emerson, often referred to as "Uncle Waldo," became one of the library's earliest supporters.
Library in a Chicken Coop
The reasons behind the relocation are uncertain, but during the early 1880s, the Library shifted to a renovated chicken coop situated across the street from the schoolhouse. It continued to operate from this converted coop for 14 years.
The Cobbler's Shop
In 1896, the Library expanded beyond the chicken coop and relocated to a former cobbler's shop. This site later transformed into the Elephant's Trunk Thrift Shop, managed by the Friends of the Somers Library to generate funds for its upkeep. By 1963, the Library had outgrown the cobbler's shop and moved across the street to the refurbished cobbler's house, which was adapted for the Library's needs.
The Foundation
Established in 2011, the Somers Library Foundation operates as a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to bolstering the Somers Library, a vital hub for intellectual and cultural activities in our community. Beyond the annual budget allocated by the Town of Somers, the Foundation raises funds to enrich the library’s resources and capabilities.
This includes investments in modernization, innovative services, and cutting-edge technologies through private donations and pursuit of grants. Their overarching goal is to cultivate a dynamic and inclusive environment that encourages reading, exploration of ideas, social connections and lifelong learning in Somers. If you wish to contribute, there are several avenues available, including individual contributions, corporate sponsorships and planned giving opportunities.