Keeseville’s first library consisted of a few shelves of books in the grocery store of Rodolphu Farnham on Main Street, … during the early 1840s. Somewhat later the King’s Daughters of the Presbyterian Church operated a circulating library with headquarters in a Front St. building approximate site of Mace’s store. The Lee Memorial library was established October 3rd, 1901, and housed in a square framed building on Main Street…
The library was supported by subscriptions memberships being $1.00 annually. The first trustees were Miss Nellie Hopkins, Nettie Kingland, Jutine Thompson, Frank M Hopkins, Fred B McKenzie, Sheridan McGowan and Nathaniel G Boynton. Miss Hopkins was the first librarian and was succeeded by Miss Jane Garfield upon the death of the former in August 1910. In 1926 the Lee Memorial library became the Keeseville Free Library under a state charter but remained in the same building. Interested residents served and continue to serve on the library board.
The library’s headquarters on Main Street was destroyed by fire on November 21st 1923 and the present brick library on Front Street was erected in 1926 and built under the W.P.A.
Information taken from a newspaper clipping
Connecting Keeseville Through Learning & Community
Since the 1840s, Keeseville’s library has been a trusted resource and gathering place for neighbors, families, and friends. Our rich history reflects a legacy of nurturing curiosity, supporting literacy, and fostering unity across generations.
At the heart of our mission is a belief in the transformative power of knowledge and community. We offer a wide range of programs—including reading initiatives for all ages, engaging events, and the beloved Keeseville Community Arts Festival—designed to uplift and inspire.
Our dedicated Staff and Board work compassionately to ensure every visitor feels welcome and supported. Whether you’re seeking a quiet place to read, resources for personal growth, or opportunities to connect with others, you’ll find a caring environment here.
We proudly partner with local organizations and artists to celebrate creativity and culture. Through newsletters, public documents, and accessible services, we strive to keep our community informed, involved, and inspired.
The Keeseville Free Library is a part of the Clinton Essex Franklin Library System (CEFLS) under the direction of Robyn Pray.
Support the Keeseville Free Library
While many of our operating costs are supported by taxpayers in the Town of Chesterfield, AuSable and the AuSable Valley School System; donations from individuals, groups, and businesses have allowed our library to continually improve programs, update collections, maintain a safe and comfortable facility, meet the increased technological needs of the community, and ensure accessibility for all. If you would like to support the library, we accept donations via cash, check, or credit and debit card through Zeffy.
Our library is also always seeking volunteers as well as ideas for new programs. If you have an idea, skill, craft or service that you feel would benefit our patrons and support our mission, please contact us today!
Board of Trustees, Keeseville Free Library
Library Director: Robyn Pray
President: Doug Garrand
Vice President: Lorna Hohn
Secretary: Romeyn Prescott
Treasurer: Ted Sill
Trustee: Kelly Frady
Trustee: Nancy Garrand
Trustee: Kathie LaBombard
Trustee: Judy McCusker
Trustee: Margaret Sheehey