History of the Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library
The History of Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library
For more than a century, the Clarksburg Harrison Public Library has reflected the spirit, determination, and creativity of the community it serves. Its origins trace back to 1903, when Clarksburg’s women led a bold call to action urging the city to establish a public library. Their efforts sparked the first reading room in the Jacobs Building, sustained entirely by volunteers and a one dollar subscription fee. Through multiple relocations and the steady leadership of early librarians like Sally Scully Page, the library grew into a trusted resource for families, students, and lifelong learners. In 1932, the Waldomore became its home, transforming a private residence into a civic treasure where generations of children discovered books, imagination, and belonging.
By the 1970s, the city embraced an even larger vision. Under the leadership of library director Merle Moore and board president Mary Curtin, Clarksburg commissioned world renowned architect Marcel Breuer to design a modern, Brutalist style library beside the Waldomore. Completed in 1975, the new structure became an architectural landmark, with its clean lines, dramatic brickwork, floor to ceiling windows, and inviting spaces for readers of all ages. Today, the library continues to thrive with robust programming, children’s activities, community partnerships, technology access, and the steadfast support of the Friends of the Library. More than 2,400 items are checked out each month, a testament to how deeply Clarksburg values its library and the enduring legacy of the women and visionaries who built it.
Credits
Host, Research, & Scheduling: Martha Jett
Production & Marketing: Beth Gain
Mixing & Editing: J. Joseph
Music: West Virginia Mountain Melody performed by Steve Peters
Special thank you to: Bill O’Field