Library Turns 150

By Dale Girard
Mayor of Claremont
Growing up in Claremont, I realized at a young age we were fortunate to have a public library. I enjoyed my trips to read and research homework assignments. Recently, while enjoying the second Saturday July event on Pleasant Street, I had the opportunity to learn more about the history.

The Off Broad Street Players performed a 30-minute skit to celebrate the history of Pleasant Street buildings and residents. I left the event looking to know more about the library’s history, so I sat down with Director Michael Grace and Librarian Colin Sanborn.

The library was founded August 7, 1873, by Samuel P. Fiske, who donated nearly 2,000 books from his own collection, as well as $5,000 to add to the collection. The original location of the library was on the second floor of Stevens High School, which only lasted a few short years because it was running out of space, even though it was only a few years old.

During the town meeting of 1877, a board of five trustees was formed. Its original work included finding a new location. The trustees chose the Bailey Building’s second floor on Sullivan Street. They were given a budget of $7,000 for this project.

Mr. Fiske died in 1879. In his will, he donated an additional $5,000 to the library. As part of his deed, the town was required to provide library space, insurance, repair, book replacement as well as funding for a librarian.

In the early 1900s, the trustees recognized the need to locate to a new space. They began the process by applying for funding through the Carnegie Fund. As part of the application, the town was required to demonstrate the need for a public library, provide the building site, pay staff, maintain the library, provide public funds to operate the library, provide ten percent of library’s construction cost to support operations and provide free service to all. The town received $15,000 in January 1903. Claremont was one of just 13 communities in NH and Vermont to receive this funding.

The groundbreaking was on the 30th anniversary of Mr. Fiske’s original gift. The building was expanded in 1922 and renovated in 1966. Through the years, the library has evolved to keep up with technology and resources.

Fast forward to 2023. The Fiske Free Library is celebrating its 150th anniversary. They have completed many projects including replacing flooring, furniture and reading materials. Some projects were funded locally, as well as by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.

This summer staff provided children with reading every Wednesday, with over 60 children participating in the program. On Wednesday August 23, they celebrated the end of the summer reading program. During the celebration they provided cupcakes for the “150th Birthday Party” as well as balloon creations and a children’s musician.

The Fiske Free Library will continue with activities during the Fall to celebrate its 150th anniversary. The Off Broad Street Players are planning another performance. Please monitor the library’s Web site at https://www.claremontnh.com/fiske-free-library-landing-page or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fiskefreelibrary to hear more about upcoming events as part of the celebration.

Dale Girard is the mayor of Claremont.