By 1808Delaware
The Wornstaff Memorial Public Library stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the power of philanthropy in the village of Ashley. Dedicated in August 1928 , it has served as a center of knowledge and a cherished hub for residents of Ashley and Oxford Township for nearly a century.
Origins of a Legacy
The story of the Wornstaff Library began with Chesley and Ella Wornstaff. Inspired by a memorial library they had visited in Florida, the couple made provisions in their will to establish a similar institution in their hometown of Ashley. This library would serve as a lasting tribute to their son, Albertus. Their will, read in 1914, allocated $10,000 for this endeavor, with $7,000 designated for land acquisition and the construction of a “building of stone and brick.” “The remaining $3,000 was set aside for books and supplies.
The library’s construction was a unique undertaking. Furniture and equipment were obtained from the nearby Mansfield Reformatory, where inmates skillfully crafted, delivered, and installed the shelving. This unusual approach to construction reflects both the community’s resourcefulness and the era’s reliance on prison labor for public works projects. The library’s foundation bricks, each bearing the inscription “Ohio State Brick 1927 convict made,” along with the original circulation desk and library tables, are still in use today, serving as tangible connections to the library’s past. Adding a personal touch, a few antique pieces of furniture from the Wornstaff home were also donated to the library. The landscaping around the library was completed by the local Vocational Agriculture Class, further demonstrating the community’s involvement in the project.
Initially, the library relied on the dedication of local high school students and teachers who volunteered their time as librarians. Books were purchased and donated by community members, and Miss Mary Barton, a teacher and librarian, volunteered her time to prepare the books for use. In 1930, Mrs. Daisy Haughn was hired as the first paid librarian, marking a significant step in the library’s professional development.
Growth and Expansion
Over the years, the Wornstaff Library has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate the growing needs of the community. In 1980, a significant addition was constructed, made possible in part by the original endowment from the Wornstaff house, which provided $40,000 of the $70,000 needed for the project. Another expansion in 1990 doubled the size of the original building, further increasing the library’s capacity to serve its patrons.
More recently, in 2019, the library underwent a minor renovation to refresh and modernize its interior. This included new carpeting and paint throughout the building, a fresh coat of paint on the exterior roof eaves, and the replacement of the front door. These improvements ensured that the library continued to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for its users.
Milestones and Challenges
The Wornstaff Library’s journey has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. In 1952, the Delaware County District Library proposed a consolidation, but the Wornstaff Library, with the support of the community, chose to remain independent. This decision demonstrated a strong commitment to local control and a belief in the library’s unique value to the community. The Wornstaff Library operates as an association library, with its trustees established by the Wornstaff will rather than by law.
In 2010, the library faced a significant financial hurdle with a 35% reduction in state funding. However, the community rallied behind the library, and a levy was passed in both the Village of Ashley and Oxford Township to compensate for the loss. This crucial funding measure ensured the library’s continued operation and its ability to provide essential services.
Recognizing the benefits of collaboration and resource sharing, the Wornstaff Library joined the Consortium of Ohio Libraries (COOL) in 2012. COOL is a network of 12 independent libraries that work together to provide high-quality services while maximizing resources. This partnership gives Wornstaff Library patrons access to a vast collection of over 300,000 items while allowing the library to maintain its independence.
The Wornstaff Library Today
Today, the Wornstaff Memorial Public Library thrives as a vital community resource, offering a wide range of services to people of all ages. The library is free and open to all Ohio residents, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for everyone in the area. It boasts a diverse collection of approximately 28,000 books, over 3,000 DVDs, and nearly 60 magazine subscriptions. In addition to its physical collection, the library provides access to a wide array of digital resources through its online catalog. This reflects the library’s commitment to staying current with technology and providing diverse resources to meet the evolving needs of its patrons in the digital age.
Patrons can also utilize computers, photocopiers, and fax machines, and participate in a variety of programs designed for children, families, and adults. The library actively collaborates with local organizations and institutions, such as the Buckeye Valley East Elementary School, providing valuable resources and support for students and teachers.
The library’s financial stability is ensured through a combination of funding sources, including the Public Library Fund, private endowments, and levies from the Village of Ashley and Oxford Township. This diversified funding model helps to ensure the library’s long-term sustainability and its ability to continue serving the community.
You can visit the library’s website here. A July view of the building from Google Maps can be seen below.
Delaware County History Resources
In addition to its extensive collection of books and media, the Wornstaff Library plays an important role in preserving and promoting local history. The library provides access to valuable resources related to Delaware County’s past, including the Delaware Memory Project and the Delaware History Portal. The Delaware Memory Project is a collaborative effort between libraries, government offices, historical societies, and archives throughout Delaware County to document and share the area’s rich history. The Delaware History Portal offers online access to historical documents, photographs, and other materials related to Delaware County. These resources are invaluable to researchers, students, and anyone interested in learning more about the history of the area.
The Original Library
The Wornstaff Library may seem relatively straight-forward in style, however it is clearly a product of its time. The one story brick building shares much in common with late Prairie Style structures in its low roofline and decorative quoins on each corner. The eaves feature paired brackets that add to its character.
Sources: Wornstaff Library, Delaware County Regional Planning, Consortium of Ohio Libraries
