Lowe Public Library

About Us:

Readers and information seekers can come to the Lowe Public Library, located at 40 Bridge Street across from the Shinnston Municipal Building, for current bestsellers, for magazines, and for use of reference materials. Being an affiliate of the Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library and being supported by the West Virginia Library Commission gives the library added opportunities for development.

A circulating and reference collection of over 10,000 volumes covers the interests of all age groups. Adults can find the latest fiction and non-fiction for recreational reading and informational reading. A large paperback collection is available as well as a collection of large-print books for the visually impaired and a record collection.

The Children's Room provides books for the picture-book child, for the beginning reader, and for the advanced junior reader. This collection includes both fiction and non-fiction books as well as the popular read-along kits for the younger child.

The library maintains three-year files of prominent magazines to use as sources to supplement its recently updated and expanded reference collection. An inter-library loan service greatly expands the library's resources. Many public school and college students avail themselves of the services of Lowe Public Library.

In addition to the usual services expected from a public library, several special services are available for a small fee during library hours. A fax machine, a photo copier, and a notary are some of these added services. During income tax season, both federal and state tax forms may be obtained here, generally with no charge. A used book sale is carried on continuously with the books coming from various sources. Literacy volunteers use the library as a center of instruction for those seeking this service.

In 1970, the Lowe family home was bequeathed to the Woman's Club of Shinnston by Pearl Lowe Johnson for use as a library. The Benjamin Lowe family acquired this property in 1877. As the years passed, several additions were made by the family to increase the size of the house.

Funds were needed to adapt the house to library use. In 1972, mainly by public subscription, sufficient funds were raised to make the conversion. Grants were received from the Benedum Foundation and the West Virginia Library Commission to assist with the project. During the renovation, retaining the charm of the home as much as possible was uppermost in the minds of those overseeing the necessary changes. On June 23, 1973, Lowe Public Library was dedicated and opened for patrons. Finally the library had a permanent home!