Ralpho Township Public Library

By-Laws were enacted in June 1973 for the "Ralpho Township Public Library". It was incorporated with the State and Federal Government as an educational, non-profit organization. Action was then taken to establish the Library in Elysburg by the Ralpho Township Elementary PTA.

The initial problem was to find adequate space for the library, then the financing, organization, and operation created additional problems. The first tentative budget was developed in August 1973 and approval was given to rent space in the Bebenek Building on East Roosevelt Avenue. The Directors were then granted $3,200 for the purchase of initial furniture and equipment requirements. An annual allowance of $6,000 was also granted for operating expenses. Additional funds were secured from contributions of local citizens, civic organizations, and businesses and contribution of an initial supply of books.

The Bebenek Building was then renovated and repainted. By December, it had wall to wall carpeting and shelving units. In December, 1973, the first Librarian was hired, Kathryn Williams. The Grand Opening and Dedication was held on January 27, 1974 with approximately 2,000 books in the library.

In January, 1975 the library became part of the Pottsville Library District. Since then, the Library has moved to the Municipal Building on Valley Avenue. This was decided because of the need for more space. With the help of volunteers and library workers, the library moved into its new home on May 16, 1977. To celebrate, an Open House was held on June 12, 1977.