About the Library

Mission Statement
The Allens Hill Free Library provides print and digital materials, programs, and services to meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of our community. We aim to inspire a lifelong love of reading, learning, and connection for patrons of all ages.

Library Roles

1. Popular Materials Library
The library offers high-demand, high-interest materials in a variety of formats and will continue to maintain and expand its adult collections.

2. Learning Center for Children
With a large, well-maintained, and much-loved collection of children’s books, the library supports literacy and learning from an early age. Staff assist parents and caregivers in finding appropriate materials for their children.

3. Community Learning Center
The library provides resources and support for lifelong learning, offering materials and programs for all ages to help individuals pursue their personal and educational goals.

Staff:

Christine Green - Library Manager/Director

Jaye Knight - Library Clerk

Board of Trustees:

Dorothy Graziano President

Katey Sackett Vice Pres.

Janelle Deal Secretary

Kate Deprez Ransom Treasurer

Sally Blackmer Trustee

Lisa Mitello Trustee

Samantha Ashley Trustee

History

The Allens Hill Free Library traces its origins to the late 1800s, when the Allens Hill Literary Society served as a hub for cultural and intellectual life in the community. Members met regularly to review books, present recitals, and share educational programs.

In 1883, the society founded the Allens Hill Free Library to preserve and lend their growing book collection. Mrs. C.W. Simmons, the Society’s secretary, became the first librarian, lending books from her home before moving them to the Allens Hill General Store, owned by her husband. At the time, the librarian’s salary was $15 per year.

The library received its Provisional Charter from New York State on February 28, 1895. The original trustees were Richard Allen, Hiram Case, Mary Green, Horace Pech, and Anna Sayre. In 1906, the library received its first public funds, having previously relied entirely on the Literary Society for support.

The collection later moved to a small 11-by-13-foot room in the Richard Allen home, where shelves filled every inch of space. Following Allen’s death, rent for the room was paid to his son, Tracey Allen.

For many years, Allens Hill was known as the smallest library in New York State—a 1951 state publication even featured side-by-side photos of the New York Public Library and the Allens Hill Free Library as the state’s largest and smallest libraries.

In 1960, the library joined the Ontario Cooperative Library System, introducing interlibrary loan and delivery service twice a week. This greatly expanded access for patrons, who could now borrow books from larger regional libraries. Despite overflowing shelves and lines out the door, the library remained in the Allen home until 1970.

Thanks to a community-led building fund begun in the 1960s, a new building was constructed in 1972 on land donated by James Stanton. The small structure, about the size of a two-car garage, was built by Rudco Co., with finishing and landscaping completed by community volunteers. The building committee included George Deal, Jim Maycock, Harry and Louise McKee, and Floyd and Caroline Shilling.

As the library grew, a 1992 addition expanded the space, funded entirely through community efforts and the dedication of the library board. Shelving was built and installed by the Honeoye Rotary Club.

Further improvements came in 1995, when the library received its first computer, enhancing access to regional library resources. That year, a colorful mural painted by Honeoye Central School students and faculty was added to the exterior, and new carpet and handicapped access were installed.

The library celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1995 with an open house honoring long-time trustee Helen Anna Launt, who retired after 28 years of service.

Another building update followed in 2003, adding another room that nearly doubled the size of the library again. Most recently, the library completed interior and exterior updates funded through donations, including new carpet, lighting, windows, and fresh paint.

The Allens Hill Free Library proudly celebrated the 125th anniversary of its New York State Charter in 2021, marking over a century of service, learning, and community connection. The anniverary was actually in 2020, but libraries had limited services during the pandemic. This was a fabulous outdoor event that allowed us to celebrate the return to full services.

In 2021, the library was honored to collaborate with local artist John Magnus Champlin, who created a stunning new mural for the building. John was a frequent visitor to the library as a child, often stopping in to explore books between bailing hay with his father in nearby fields. His early experiences at the library sparked a lifelong love of learning that led him to become a marine biologist, where he began capturing the beauty of underwater life through art. John eventually transitioned to a full-time career in the arts. We are deeply proud to display his artwork and grateful for the lasting connection it symbolizes between the library and its readers.

In 2022, the library expanded its outdoor space with the creation of a StoryWalk®, an interactive walking path that allows families to enjoy a children’s book as they stroll through the grounds. The outdoor area also includes benches for reading and relaxation, as well as family-friendly activities. This addition reflects the library’s commitment to fostering literacy, movement, and community connection in a welcoming and accessible environment for all ages. This was made possible by a generous grant from the OWWL Library System. In 2024, the Board of Trustees dedicated the outdoor space to several predecessors: Tanya Olsen, Terri Schmidt, Kathy Simmons, Gerta Carpenter and Linda Mollnow, and the longest serving director of the library, Caroline Shilling.

2025

Rooted in tradition and strengthened by community spirit, the Allens Hill Free Library continues to serve as a welcoming center for reading, learning, and creativity - indoors and out - in the heart of our community.

LIBRARIANS OF THE ALLENS HILL FREE LIBRARY

1883 – 1887 Mrs. C.W. Simmons

1887 – 1895 Mary Ellen Patterson (Auntie Min)

1895 – 1901 Mary B. Allen

1901 – 1904 Richard M. Allen

1904 – 1917 Emma G. Allen

1917 – 1929 Mary D. Garlinghouse

1930 – 1932 Mina Simpson

1933 – 1940 Emma B. Duffy

1941 – 10/1944 Marguerite Mastin

1944 – 1946 Grace B. Swingle

1947 Mary Wright

1947 – 2/1948 Lois Alger

1948 – 3/1951 Audrey Wright

1951 – 10/1951 Else Garlinghouse

1951 – 1952 Caroline D. Shilling

1953 – 1954 Lyra Green

1955 – 1956 Genevieve Kunes

1957 – 1958 Susan Robinson

1958 - TBD Caroline D. Shilling

TBD Beth

TBD Beth Gladding

TBD Tanya Olsen

TBD Debbie Bartell

TBD Courtney Statt

TBD Emily

2019-present Christine Green

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