What is the Literary and Cultural Heritage Map of Pennsylvania?
The Literary and Cultural Heritage Map of Pennsylvania is a graphic display of the literary history of our Commonwealth. On the map you’ll find writers of novels, plays, short stories, technical manuals, legislation, children’s literature.just about anything you could imagine connected to writing. We have used this geographic method of organizing our authors to show the breadth of places in Pennsylvania that have fostered the writers of the state, not only our greatest cities, but the rural hamlets in the mountains and every place in between. Pick up your mouse and begin your literary explorations of Pennsylvania!
10.27.2010
Halloween in Pennsylvania 2010
Research Brief The Commonwealth’s Official Source for Population and Economic
Statistics October 27, 2010 Halloween in Pennsylvania - October 31, 2010 PENN STATE HARRISBURG – The occurrence of Halloween, which dates back to Celtic rituals performed thousands of years ago, has long been associated with thoughts of witches, ghosts, devils, and other creatures of the night. In the United States, the first recorded instance of Halloween festivities occurred in Anoka, Minnesota in 1921. However, Allentown, Pennsylvania’s annual Halloween parade, rumored to be the nation’s first, dates to 1905. While the customs and rituals associated with All-Hallows Eve have changed dramatically over the years, Halloween has grown to one of the most popular and widely celebrated holidays in the United States. “Trick or Treat!” An estimated 1.5 million Pennsylvanians – ages 5 to 14 – were potential “trick-or-treaters” in 2009, down 173,667 since 2000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2009 Population Estimates. The highest proportion of this age group was located in Chester County (13.7 percent), while the lowest was in Forest County (6.1 percent). The commonwealth’s 5.5 million housing units rank it 5th among the states, and offer plenty of possible stops for “trick-or-treat” participants. The commonwealth ranks 42nd among the states and the District of Columbia in proportion of the population ages 5 to 14 to the total population (12.0 percent). More Scares! For many trick-or-treating will provide plenty of fright, but others may turn to horror movies to boost the thrills. In 2007, Pennsylvania’s movie and film production industries had 1,841 total establishments, which employed 8,749 individuals, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2007 Economic Census. Several scary movies have been filmed in Pennsylvania, including Night of the Living Dead, Silence of the Lambs, and most recently— Signs, which depicted an extra terrestrial invasion of a Bucks County farmhouse. In 1965, Pennsylvania was the site of a mysterious UFO episode dubbed “Pennsylvania’s Roswell,” due to its similarities to the infamous Roswell UFO incident in New Mexico. Eyewitness in the small village of Kecksburg, Pennsylvania reported seeing a brilliant fireball enter the skies to the west shortly before hearing a thunderous crash in the nearby woods. The crash site was immediately secured by the U.S. Army, who, despite claims from local residents, later declared that nothing was found in the area. To this day, the mystery continues to intrigue alien enthusiasts and conspiracy theorist alike.
Pumpkins Galore Pumpkin carving is a popular part of a modern Halloween celebration. Luckily, Pennsylvanians don’t need to search too far to find the perfect pumpkin for their jack-o’-lanterns. Pennsylvania is one of the top 5 pumpkin-growing states in the nation and produced more than 81.9 million pounds of pumpkins in 2009. The value of Pennsylvania’s pumpkin crop was $12.7 million (see Figure 1). Ohio lead all states in 2009 with $22.5 million in pumpkin crop value; the remaining states in the top 5 include New York ($21.8 million), California ($20.6 million) and Illinois ($14.9 million). Candy and Costumes A fully loaded candy bowl will need to be on hand for this year’s celebration. Americans consumed about 24.3 pounds of candy per capita in 2009, and it is believed that children consume much of this around Halloween. In Pennsylvania, the production of chocolate, cocoa, and other candy products is an important part of the manufacturing industry. According to the 2007 Economic Census, the commonwealth was 2nd in the nation in number of chocolate and cocoa product manufacturing establishments (121). These businesses employed 8,590 people. An additional 27 establishments employed 1,395 workers in the manufacture of nonchocolate confectionary products. Overall, Pennsylvania’s sugar and confectionary industry shipped nearly 5 billion dollars in goods in 2007. Costume shops can also look forward to a boost in business around Halloween. In 2007, 81 formal wear and costume rental establishments in Pennsylvania employed 448 people and grossed 38.8 million dollars. An additional 32 non-employer formal wear and costume rental establishments earned just over $1.7 million. Figure 1. Value of Pumpkin Production, 2009 State Rank State Value of Production (dollars) 1 Ohio $ 22,513,000 2 New York $ 21,750,000 3 California $ 20,558,000 4 Illinois $ 14,896,000 5 Pennsylvania $ 12,695,000 Source: United States Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service Sources: U.S. Census Bureau Annual Population Estimates, 2009; Economic Census, 2007; U.S. Department of Agriculture The Pennsylvania State Data Center is the commonwealth’s official source for population and economic statistics. It is based at Penn State Harrisburg’s Institute of State and Regional Affairs. The Pennsylvania State Data Center is part of the U.S. Census Bureau’s National State Data Center Program. Editors: For additional data, contact the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s State Capital Office at 717.772.2710 or for faculty comment on this topic, contact Penn State Harrisburg’s Public Information Office at 717.948.6029.
Statistics October 27, 2010 Halloween in Pennsylvania - October 31, 2010 PENN STATE HARRISBURG – The occurrence of Halloween, which dates back to Celtic rituals performed thousands of years ago, has long been associated with thoughts of witches, ghosts, devils, and other creatures of the night. In the United States, the first recorded instance of Halloween festivities occurred in Anoka, Minnesota in 1921. However, Allentown, Pennsylvania’s annual Halloween parade, rumored to be the nation’s first, dates to 1905. While the customs and rituals associated with All-Hallows Eve have changed dramatically over the years, Halloween has grown to one of the most popular and widely celebrated holidays in the United States. “Trick or Treat!” An estimated 1.5 million Pennsylvanians – ages 5 to 14 – were potential “trick-or-treaters” in 2009, down 173,667 since 2000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2009 Population Estimates. The highest proportion of this age group was located in Chester County (13.7 percent), while the lowest was in Forest County (6.1 percent). The commonwealth’s 5.5 million housing units rank it 5th among the states, and offer plenty of possible stops for “trick-or-treat” participants. The commonwealth ranks 42nd among the states and the District of Columbia in proportion of the population ages 5 to 14 to the total population (12.0 percent). More Scares! For many trick-or-treating will provide plenty of fright, but others may turn to horror movies to boost the thrills. In 2007, Pennsylvania’s movie and film production industries had 1,841 total establishments, which employed 8,749 individuals, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2007 Economic Census. Several scary movies have been filmed in Pennsylvania, including Night of the Living Dead, Silence of the Lambs, and most recently— Signs, which depicted an extra terrestrial invasion of a Bucks County farmhouse. In 1965, Pennsylvania was the site of a mysterious UFO episode dubbed “Pennsylvania’s Roswell,” due to its similarities to the infamous Roswell UFO incident in New Mexico. Eyewitness in the small village of Kecksburg, Pennsylvania reported seeing a brilliant fireball enter the skies to the west shortly before hearing a thunderous crash in the nearby woods. The crash site was immediately secured by the U.S. Army, who, despite claims from local residents, later declared that nothing was found in the area. To this day, the mystery continues to intrigue alien enthusiasts and conspiracy theorist alike.
Pumpkins Galore Pumpkin carving is a popular part of a modern Halloween celebration. Luckily, Pennsylvanians don’t need to search too far to find the perfect pumpkin for their jack-o’-lanterns. Pennsylvania is one of the top 5 pumpkin-growing states in the nation and produced more than 81.9 million pounds of pumpkins in 2009. The value of Pennsylvania’s pumpkin crop was $12.7 million (see Figure 1). Ohio lead all states in 2009 with $22.5 million in pumpkin crop value; the remaining states in the top 5 include New York ($21.8 million), California ($20.6 million) and Illinois ($14.9 million). Candy and Costumes A fully loaded candy bowl will need to be on hand for this year’s celebration. Americans consumed about 24.3 pounds of candy per capita in 2009, and it is believed that children consume much of this around Halloween. In Pennsylvania, the production of chocolate, cocoa, and other candy products is an important part of the manufacturing industry. According to the 2007 Economic Census, the commonwealth was 2nd in the nation in number of chocolate and cocoa product manufacturing establishments (121). These businesses employed 8,590 people. An additional 27 establishments employed 1,395 workers in the manufacture of nonchocolate confectionary products. Overall, Pennsylvania’s sugar and confectionary industry shipped nearly 5 billion dollars in goods in 2007. Costume shops can also look forward to a boost in business around Halloween. In 2007, 81 formal wear and costume rental establishments in Pennsylvania employed 448 people and grossed 38.8 million dollars. An additional 32 non-employer formal wear and costume rental establishments earned just over $1.7 million. Figure 1. Value of Pumpkin Production, 2009 State Rank State Value of Production (dollars) 1 Ohio $ 22,513,000 2 New York $ 21,750,000 3 California $ 20,558,000 4 Illinois $ 14,896,000 5 Pennsylvania $ 12,695,000 Source: United States Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service Sources: U.S. Census Bureau Annual Population Estimates, 2009; Economic Census, 2007; U.S. Department of Agriculture The Pennsylvania State Data Center is the commonwealth’s official source for population and economic statistics. It is based at Penn State Harrisburg’s Institute of State and Regional Affairs. The Pennsylvania State Data Center is part of the U.S. Census Bureau’s National State Data Center Program. Editors: For additional data, contact the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s State Capital Office at 717.772.2710 or for faculty comment on this topic, contact Penn State Harrisburg’s Public Information Office at 717.948.6029.
10.18.2010
Population Estimates for Monroe County
Monroe County, Pennsylvania
Total Population
July 1, 2009
166,355
July 1, 2008
165,540
July 1, 2007
164,670
July 1, 2006
162,891
July 1, 2005
160,169
July 1, 2004
156,762
July 1, 2003
152,999
July 1, 2002
148,277
July 1, 2001
143,560
July 1, 2000
139,771
April 1, 2000 (Estimates Base)
138,690
April 1, 2000 (Census 2000)
138,687
Source: US Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program
More Tables and Information: Population Estimates Program
Note: The April 1, 2000 estimates base reflects changes to the Census 2000 population resulting from legal boundary updates as of January 1 of the estimates year, other geographic program changes, and Count Question Resolution actions. All geographic boundaries for the July 1, 2009 population estimates series are defined as of January 1, 2009. An "(x)" in the Census 2000 field indicates a locality that was formed or incorporated after Census 2000 or was erroneously omitted from Census 2000. See Geographic Change Notes for additional information on these localities.
Total Population
July 1, 2009
166,355
July 1, 2008
165,540
July 1, 2007
164,670
July 1, 2006
162,891
July 1, 2005
160,169
July 1, 2004
156,762
July 1, 2003
152,999
July 1, 2002
148,277
July 1, 2001
143,560
July 1, 2000
139,771
April 1, 2000 (Estimates Base)
138,690
April 1, 2000 (Census 2000)
138,687
Source: US Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program
More Tables and Information: Population Estimates Program
Note: The April 1, 2000 estimates base reflects changes to the Census 2000 population resulting from legal boundary updates as of January 1 of the estimates year, other geographic program changes, and Count Question Resolution actions. All geographic boundaries for the July 1, 2009 population estimates series are defined as of January 1, 2009. An "(x)" in the Census 2000 field indicates a locality that was formed or incorporated after Census 2000 or was erroneously omitted from Census 2000. See Geographic Change Notes for additional information on these localities.
Dannsbury Depot Move
By Beth Brelje
Pocono Record Writer
October 13, 2010
The historic former train station known as Dansbury Depot is set to be relocated Friday by Wolfe House and Building Movers, professionals experienced in moving community heirlooms.
The company placed steel beams under the station Tuesday in preparation for a move across the train tracks from Crystal Street to a temporary location in the municipal parking lot.
Pocono Record Writer
October 13, 2010
The historic former train station known as Dansbury Depot is set to be relocated Friday by Wolfe House and Building Movers, professionals experienced in moving community heirlooms.
The company placed steel beams under the station Tuesday in preparation for a move across the train tracks from Crystal Street to a temporary location in the municipal parking lot.
9.14.2010
York County Archives Online
Marriage index 1885-1929
Birth index 1893-1905plus may other indexes
About The York County Archives
The York County Archives is a department of the York County Government.
The Archives was established in 1987 and moved to its current location in 1995. To accommodate the growing number of records, the Archives building was expanded in 2001.
York County's records begin in August of 1749 when York County was formed from Lancaster County. The Archives stores records for over 40 different county offices during various time periods throughout the past 250 years.
Birth index 1893-1905plus may other indexes
About The York County Archives
The York County Archives is a department of the York County Government.
The Archives was established in 1987 and moved to its current location in 1995. To accommodate the growing number of records, the Archives building was expanded in 2001.
York County's records begin in August of 1749 when York County was formed from Lancaster County. The Archives stores records for over 40 different county offices during various time periods throughout the past 250 years.
8.12.2010
Library funding in Pennsylvania
Everyone remembers the bookish kid who used to get picked on after class for no good reason.
Socked by several rounds of state budget cuts, at a time when they say demand for services has never been greater, the people who run Pennsylvania's public libraries are feeling much the same way.
"I know everyone has to cut and I understand that," Janet Fricker, director of the Bethlehem Area Public Library, told a legislative panel Wednesday. "It seems as though libraries have been on first, to take the worst. There's a mistaken idea we're not essential. We are essential."
Fricker was one of several area library directors to come before the House Democratic Policy Committee in Bethlehem to discuss the implications of cuts to public libraries, which also receive local support.
» DON'T BE THE LAST TO KNOW. Sign up for breaking news e-mails from The Morning Call
Library officials who appeared before the committee Wednesday at Moravian College all said they've gotten busier since the bottom fell out of the economy two years ago. Parents are taking advantage of easy access to books for their children, and job seekers are using free access to the Internet to troll the help-wanted ads.
"The people of Pennsylvania want and need their libraries," said Rep. Steve Samuelson, D-Northampton, who organized the hearing. "Pennsylvania is the state that built the first public library. In 1731, Benjamin Franklin started the first one."
State funding for libraries was cut by 9 percent, to $54.5 million, in the $28.04 billion state budget that Gov. Ed Rendell signed into law last month. Overall, state funding has declined by $21 million, from $75.5 million in 2006-07.
The subsidy provides 20 percent to 25 percent of the operating budgets for local libraries, said M. Clare Zales, deputy secretary for libraries at the state Department of Education, which controls the subsidy.
Rendell on Wednesday announced a possible 1.9 percent across-the-board cut in discretionary spending. That could further affect libraries, said the House panel's chairman, Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster.
The decline in state support doesn't reflect how heavily libraries are used, Zales said. Library use is up 10 percent from the last economic downturn in 2001 and the number of items being lent is up by more than a quarter.
"Unfortunately, this increase comes at a time when communities are least able to support their libraries," she said.
Fricker said she expects to shave about 10 percent from her $3 million budget for 2010, and things are getting snug.
"We can't run our libraries on bake sales," said Fricker, who's had to trim hours and furlough staff to make ends meet. "It's unfortunate we're in a recession right now. Our communities can't jump in and make that up."
Allentown Public Library Director Renee Haines told committee members she was forced to close a branch on Emmaus Avenue in 2009, prompting layoffs for several part-time employees. With a budget of $2.2 million, Haines said she's been able to duck any further staff cuts and hasn't been forced to trim hours. But, she said, that might not last.
With at least some lawmakers focused on the libraries' plight, Haines said she hopes the Legislature will pay attention next year.
In Easton, where the library is getting ready to celebrate its 200th anniversary, director Jennifer Stoecker has had to make do with less spending on new materials and an increased reliance on library boosters to provide programming.
The reductions come as the library has seen a 23 percent increase in visitors, she said.
"In times of recession, libraries are used more and more," Stoecker said.
Several people who testified recommended giving communities greater flexibility to come up with ways to pay for local libraries or to approve a so-called "dedicated" funding source that would provide a predictable stream of cash.
One way to do that would be to create library districts, modeled on school districts, that would levy a "library tax," said Glenn R. Miller, executive director of the Pennsylvania Library Association.
john.micek@mcall.com
717-783-7305
PURC
Socked by several rounds of state budget cuts, at a time when they say demand for services has never been greater, the people who run Pennsylvania's public libraries are feeling much the same way.
"I know everyone has to cut and I understand that," Janet Fricker, director of the Bethlehem Area Public Library, told a legislative panel Wednesday. "It seems as though libraries have been on first, to take the worst. There's a mistaken idea we're not essential. We are essential."
Fricker was one of several area library directors to come before the House Democratic Policy Committee in Bethlehem to discuss the implications of cuts to public libraries, which also receive local support.
» DON'T BE THE LAST TO KNOW. Sign up for breaking news e-mails from The Morning Call
Library officials who appeared before the committee Wednesday at Moravian College all said they've gotten busier since the bottom fell out of the economy two years ago. Parents are taking advantage of easy access to books for their children, and job seekers are using free access to the Internet to troll the help-wanted ads.
"The people of Pennsylvania want and need their libraries," said Rep. Steve Samuelson, D-Northampton, who organized the hearing. "Pennsylvania is the state that built the first public library. In 1731, Benjamin Franklin started the first one."
State funding for libraries was cut by 9 percent, to $54.5 million, in the $28.04 billion state budget that Gov. Ed Rendell signed into law last month. Overall, state funding has declined by $21 million, from $75.5 million in 2006-07.
The subsidy provides 20 percent to 25 percent of the operating budgets for local libraries, said M. Clare Zales, deputy secretary for libraries at the state Department of Education, which controls the subsidy.
Rendell on Wednesday announced a possible 1.9 percent across-the-board cut in discretionary spending. That could further affect libraries, said the House panel's chairman, Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster.
The decline in state support doesn't reflect how heavily libraries are used, Zales said. Library use is up 10 percent from the last economic downturn in 2001 and the number of items being lent is up by more than a quarter.
"Unfortunately, this increase comes at a time when communities are least able to support their libraries," she said.
Fricker said she expects to shave about 10 percent from her $3 million budget for 2010, and things are getting snug.
"We can't run our libraries on bake sales," said Fricker, who's had to trim hours and furlough staff to make ends meet. "It's unfortunate we're in a recession right now. Our communities can't jump in and make that up."
Allentown Public Library Director Renee Haines told committee members she was forced to close a branch on Emmaus Avenue in 2009, prompting layoffs for several part-time employees. With a budget of $2.2 million, Haines said she's been able to duck any further staff cuts and hasn't been forced to trim hours. But, she said, that might not last.
With at least some lawmakers focused on the libraries' plight, Haines said she hopes the Legislature will pay attention next year.
In Easton, where the library is getting ready to celebrate its 200th anniversary, director Jennifer Stoecker has had to make do with less spending on new materials and an increased reliance on library boosters to provide programming.
The reductions come as the library has seen a 23 percent increase in visitors, she said.
"In times of recession, libraries are used more and more," Stoecker said.
Several people who testified recommended giving communities greater flexibility to come up with ways to pay for local libraries or to approve a so-called "dedicated" funding source that would provide a predictable stream of cash.
One way to do that would be to create library districts, modeled on school districts, that would levy a "library tax," said Glenn R. Miller, executive director of the Pennsylvania Library Association.
john.micek@mcall.com
717-783-7305
PURC
6.22.2010
Schuylkill County Marriage Records
Schuylkill County Pa. Courthouse Archives. Marriage Records Index 1885-2010
www.co.schuylkill.pa.us
www.co.schuylkill.pa.us
5.27.2010
Monroe County Public Library Chronology
Monroe County Public Library
Chronology by Julie Bonser
Feb 1, 1916 Library officially opens by the Stroudsburg Civic Club in Reformed Church on Eighth Street, Stroudsburg, PA.
Nov 1917 Library moves to room in home of Mrs. Pugh, Main Street. (Next to the Stroudsburg Methodist Church.)
Sep 1920 Stroudsburg Civic Club purchases Stroud Mansion (900 Main Street) for library’s new location.
Dec 1920 (approx) Library moves to Stroud Mansion.
Jan 1929 Stroudsburg Council’s donation of $300 to library is reported.
1933-36 Library run by club, now known as Stroudsburg Woman’s Club.
Nov 13, 1936 First library board meeting. The minutes report Elizabeth Kane hired as librarian.
Sept 1937 Monroe County Library is born with Commissioners Willard L. Quick, George E. Shick & Lawrence M. Ramsey signing a cooperative statement with the Stroudsburg Woman’s Club appointing a library board chairman.
Oct 1, 1937 According to library minutes, “It was decided to establish a county library…. the name of the library will be changed from the Stroudsburg Library to the Stroudsburg and Monroe County Library.”
1941 First bookmobile is purchased – half paid by Kiwanis, half by Commissioners.
Dec 1943 Junior department opens in rear of Stroud Mansion House.
Jun 2, 1948 913 Main Street is deeded to Monroe County Library by Howard L. Keiper.
Jun 15, 1953 Ann Kane, daughter of Elizabeth Kane, begins working at library.
Dec 15, 1954 Library opens on first floor of 913 Main Street.
Aug 1955 Bookmobile destroyed in flood. The Red Cross and other individuals loan the use of their vehicles until a new bookmobile is purchased.
Feb 16, 1956 Kiwanis Club presents library with a second bookmobile.
Jun 1957 Agnes Shafer Ransbury Trust funds of $41,932 plus a lot on Route 611 presented to library.
Dec 11, 1961 Elizabeth Kane is honored for 25 years of service. Lulu Shafer Conway was also honored for serving as library’s treasurer for 25 years. She resigned on May 5, 1962.
1963 Howard L. Keiper passed away.
1969 Minutes of Board of Trustees meeting reflect much discussion about building plans; number of board meetings increased from 4 to 6 a year.
Spring 1971 Junior department moves upstairs – renovation.
Fall 1974 A period of transition marked by the death of Mrs. Elizabeth Kane in September; special entry in Trustees’ minute book records details.
Jul 1975 Carol Deane appointed as librarian.
Sept 1975 Mount Pocono Borough Council established Mount Pocono Library with a Board of Directors appointed by council.
Oct 6, 1975 The first meeting of the “Friends of the Library.”
1975-76 Mount Pocono Public Library (MPPL) library policies & procedures developed.
Apr 1976 MPPL open; first borough funds received in March.
Dec 1976 Carol Deane resigns.
Nov 1977 Mount Pocono receives CETA staff to assist volunteers so library can be open longer; regular schedule.
Jun 1978 Barbara J. Keiser hired as library director.
Oct 78 – Sept 79 Library Services & Construction Act, Title 1 Grant to Monroe County Commissioners for a study of public library services in the county. Audrey Cohen elected chairperson of the Ad Hoc Library Committee of 17 representatives of various kinds of libraries appointed by the Commissioners to oversee the grant. Consultant Edwin Beckerman hired. After public meetings, surveys & much investigation, the committee published a final report in 9/79 outlining the general needs for an improved library facility.
Nov 1979 Circulation exceeds 100,000 per year for first time.
1979 Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) receives per capita state aid for the first time on the basis of 1970 census figures for Monroe County less Barrett Township. Funding was received because of an ambitious plan to meet state standards of collection size which cannot be realized in the present count library building in Stroudsburg.
Jun 1980 MCPL Long Range Planning Committee submits “Library Space Needs” report to Board of Trustees.
Jul 1980 Bookmobile services extend to developments during summer months.
Sept 1980 Mount Pocono Public Library (MPPL) & Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) begins coordinated services providing staffing & collection development assistance. State aid administered for both libraries on the basis of a Monroe County Library System.
Oct 1980 MCPL Long Range Planning Committee submitted to the board general comments on funding sources for capital development. Report includes 18 location options for the central county library facility. The committee further lists four guidelines for selection & indicated preference for two buildings & two land sites. Importance of locating county library in downtown Stroudsburg addressed.
1980 County population increases to 69,409; annual county library circulation 130,874.
Jan 1981 Site Selection Committee formed of Board members Frank M. Brown, Edward Katz & Susan Kovarick.
Apr 1981 Trader’s Hardware building was sold to furniture business & removed from consideration.
May 1981 Board of Trustees authorized Tretheway Associates to do a feasibility study of the Avlon property on Main Street.
Jul 1981 Tretheway Associates submit “The Avlon Building; Study for Use as the Monroe County Library” to the board for discussion.
Sept 1981 Bushkill Library opened 10 hours per week at Schoonover House Bushkill Community Center; staffed by volunteers from the center.
Computer database searching made available as an enhancement to present reference & research services. Equipment & training provided through Library Services & Construction Act funds in cooperation with the Easton Area District Library.
Nov 1981 MCPL Board of Trustees votes to carefully consider a proposal submitted by Mill Race Developers to convert one wing of the Holland Thread Complex for use as the new central library.
1981 System circulation totals 138,121.
Apr 1982 The John F. Rich Company, fundraising counsel hired to do a feasibility study to measure fund-raising potential for the Holland Thread project. Report submitted May 21, 1982.
Spring 1982 New book drop is added to the Loder Building, courtesy of the Daybreak Kiwanis Club.
Nov 1982 Mount Pocono Public Library and the Monroe County Public Library solidify coordinated services agreement and join as one system.
Jul 1983 Library mascot, Yertle the Turtle, joins the library.
Nov 1983 Referendum effort fails.
Sept 1984 Barbara Keiser resigns as director.
Sept 1984 Michelle Turbak hired as director.
1985 New Bookmobile purchased.
Sum/Fall 1986 Bushkill Library, at Schoonover House Bushkill Community Center, closes.
Apr 1, 1987 Pocono Mountain Public Library withdraws from the Monroe County Public Library System. This was decided by PMPL board at its previous monthly meeting.
Aug 26, 1987 Grand Opening of the Pocono Township branch, located at Route 715 and Warner Drive, next to United Way offices.
Jan 1990 The Pocono Township branch relocates to township building in Tannersville. The grand opening ceremony is celebrated March 23, 1990.
Sept 25, 1990 The Associated Libraries of Monroe County is created when Monroe County Public Library joins Pocono Mountain, Clymer, Barrett, and Western Pocono libraries. The Monroe County library then becomes known as the “Eastern Monroe Public Library.”
Sept 1990 Michelle Turbak resigns as director. Barbara Keiser serves as acting director until Phil Hearne is hired in 1994.
Feb 1991 Library celebrates 75th anniversary.
Nov 1991 Smithfield branch library opens for the first time. Originally scheduled to open in October, the opening had to be postponed due to a building inspection. The grand opening ceremony is celebrated on December 3, 1991.
May 18, 1993 Referendum effort passes that guarantees funding for library service. Election results: Yes, 5,085 ; No, 3,402
May 1994 Phil Hearne hired as library director.
Sum 1994 A location is chosen for the new library on Route 611 in Stroudsburg, the old Stroud’s Jewelers and Distributors building.
Nov 1994 It is announced that the new library will be named the Hughes Library, named after R. Dale Hughes and his family. Total donations from Mr. Hughes and the Hughes Foundation totaled $1 million.
Spring 1995 The first OPAC’s (Online Public Access Computers) are in use. The public can now search the library catalog from computer stations, donated by Nazareth National Bank.
Sum 1996 Staff and 150-200 volunteers prepare for move to new library location. Must move approximately 80,000 library materials.
Aug 19-25, 1996 Due to the move, annual book sale is held at the Stroud Mall.
Aug 31. 1996 EMPL opens main library named Hughes Public Library. It is finished on first floor only.
Nov 1, 1997 Gala Opening of Hughes Library held on unfinished second floor
Jan 1998 Manual check-outs cease as library goes to an automation system with MulitLIS.
Jan 1998 Second floor of Hughes Library opens releasing community meeting rooms on first floor; adult collection and staff work areas relocated to second floor.
Sept 1998 Phil Hearne leaves position of library director.
Jan 1999 Deb Messling hired as library director.
Mar 23, 2002 “Kick-off” event for newly purchased Bookmobile.
Jun 2002 Deb Messling resigns as library director.
Aug 2002 Alan Bobowski hired as library director.
Aug 24, 2002 R. Dale Hughes, local philanthropist and major donor to library, passed away.
Mar 2002 Service at the Monroe County Correctional Facility goes “live” with automated checkout.
Mar 2003 Library switches automation systems and goes live with SIRSI (Unicorn Workflows).
Jun 15, 2003 Ann Kane celebrates 50 years of library service.
Nov 2004 Alan Bobowski leaves position of library director.
2004 EMPL circulation exceeds 500,000 (all locations)
Jan 2005 Barbara Keiser appointed library director
Mar 2005 Rearrangement of 1st floor. The new layout helps accommodate for more audiovisual materials plus moves the young adult collection closer to the YA librarian’s office.
May/Jun 2005 Wireless Internet network added, accessible to patrons with laptops.
Aug 26, 2006 10th anniversary reception held for Hughes Library
Oct 2007 Resource room collection opens in Youth Services. The collection originally came from Pocono Healthy Communities Alliance.
Dec 2008 Commissioners increased tax millage to 1.1 mil.
Chronology by Julie Bonser
Feb 1, 1916 Library officially opens by the Stroudsburg Civic Club in Reformed Church on Eighth Street, Stroudsburg, PA.
Nov 1917 Library moves to room in home of Mrs. Pugh, Main Street. (Next to the Stroudsburg Methodist Church.)
Sep 1920 Stroudsburg Civic Club purchases Stroud Mansion (900 Main Street) for library’s new location.
Dec 1920 (approx) Library moves to Stroud Mansion.
Jan 1929 Stroudsburg Council’s donation of $300 to library is reported.
1933-36 Library run by club, now known as Stroudsburg Woman’s Club.
Nov 13, 1936 First library board meeting. The minutes report Elizabeth Kane hired as librarian.
Sept 1937 Monroe County Library is born with Commissioners Willard L. Quick, George E. Shick & Lawrence M. Ramsey signing a cooperative statement with the Stroudsburg Woman’s Club appointing a library board chairman.
Oct 1, 1937 According to library minutes, “It was decided to establish a county library…. the name of the library will be changed from the Stroudsburg Library to the Stroudsburg and Monroe County Library.”
1941 First bookmobile is purchased – half paid by Kiwanis, half by Commissioners.
Dec 1943 Junior department opens in rear of Stroud Mansion House.
Jun 2, 1948 913 Main Street is deeded to Monroe County Library by Howard L. Keiper.
Jun 15, 1953 Ann Kane, daughter of Elizabeth Kane, begins working at library.
Dec 15, 1954 Library opens on first floor of 913 Main Street.
Aug 1955 Bookmobile destroyed in flood. The Red Cross and other individuals loan the use of their vehicles until a new bookmobile is purchased.
Feb 16, 1956 Kiwanis Club presents library with a second bookmobile.
Jun 1957 Agnes Shafer Ransbury Trust funds of $41,932 plus a lot on Route 611 presented to library.
Dec 11, 1961 Elizabeth Kane is honored for 25 years of service. Lulu Shafer Conway was also honored for serving as library’s treasurer for 25 years. She resigned on May 5, 1962.
1963 Howard L. Keiper passed away.
1969 Minutes of Board of Trustees meeting reflect much discussion about building plans; number of board meetings increased from 4 to 6 a year.
Spring 1971 Junior department moves upstairs – renovation.
Fall 1974 A period of transition marked by the death of Mrs. Elizabeth Kane in September; special entry in Trustees’ minute book records details.
Jul 1975 Carol Deane appointed as librarian.
Sept 1975 Mount Pocono Borough Council established Mount Pocono Library with a Board of Directors appointed by council.
Oct 6, 1975 The first meeting of the “Friends of the Library.”
1975-76 Mount Pocono Public Library (MPPL) library policies & procedures developed.
Apr 1976 MPPL open; first borough funds received in March.
Dec 1976 Carol Deane resigns.
Nov 1977 Mount Pocono receives CETA staff to assist volunteers so library can be open longer; regular schedule.
Jun 1978 Barbara J. Keiser hired as library director.
Oct 78 – Sept 79 Library Services & Construction Act, Title 1 Grant to Monroe County Commissioners for a study of public library services in the county. Audrey Cohen elected chairperson of the Ad Hoc Library Committee of 17 representatives of various kinds of libraries appointed by the Commissioners to oversee the grant. Consultant Edwin Beckerman hired. After public meetings, surveys & much investigation, the committee published a final report in 9/79 outlining the general needs for an improved library facility.
Nov 1979 Circulation exceeds 100,000 per year for first time.
1979 Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) receives per capita state aid for the first time on the basis of 1970 census figures for Monroe County less Barrett Township. Funding was received because of an ambitious plan to meet state standards of collection size which cannot be realized in the present count library building in Stroudsburg.
Jun 1980 MCPL Long Range Planning Committee submits “Library Space Needs” report to Board of Trustees.
Jul 1980 Bookmobile services extend to developments during summer months.
Sept 1980 Mount Pocono Public Library (MPPL) & Monroe County Public Library (MCPL) begins coordinated services providing staffing & collection development assistance. State aid administered for both libraries on the basis of a Monroe County Library System.
Oct 1980 MCPL Long Range Planning Committee submitted to the board general comments on funding sources for capital development. Report includes 18 location options for the central county library facility. The committee further lists four guidelines for selection & indicated preference for two buildings & two land sites. Importance of locating county library in downtown Stroudsburg addressed.
1980 County population increases to 69,409; annual county library circulation 130,874.
Jan 1981 Site Selection Committee formed of Board members Frank M. Brown, Edward Katz & Susan Kovarick.
Apr 1981 Trader’s Hardware building was sold to furniture business & removed from consideration.
May 1981 Board of Trustees authorized Tretheway Associates to do a feasibility study of the Avlon property on Main Street.
Jul 1981 Tretheway Associates submit “The Avlon Building; Study for Use as the Monroe County Library” to the board for discussion.
Sept 1981 Bushkill Library opened 10 hours per week at Schoonover House Bushkill Community Center; staffed by volunteers from the center.
Computer database searching made available as an enhancement to present reference & research services. Equipment & training provided through Library Services & Construction Act funds in cooperation with the Easton Area District Library.
Nov 1981 MCPL Board of Trustees votes to carefully consider a proposal submitted by Mill Race Developers to convert one wing of the Holland Thread Complex for use as the new central library.
1981 System circulation totals 138,121.
Apr 1982 The John F. Rich Company, fundraising counsel hired to do a feasibility study to measure fund-raising potential for the Holland Thread project. Report submitted May 21, 1982.
Spring 1982 New book drop is added to the Loder Building, courtesy of the Daybreak Kiwanis Club.
Nov 1982 Mount Pocono Public Library and the Monroe County Public Library solidify coordinated services agreement and join as one system.
Jul 1983 Library mascot, Yertle the Turtle, joins the library.
Nov 1983 Referendum effort fails.
Sept 1984 Barbara Keiser resigns as director.
Sept 1984 Michelle Turbak hired as director.
1985 New Bookmobile purchased.
Sum/Fall 1986 Bushkill Library, at Schoonover House Bushkill Community Center, closes.
Apr 1, 1987 Pocono Mountain Public Library withdraws from the Monroe County Public Library System. This was decided by PMPL board at its previous monthly meeting.
Aug 26, 1987 Grand Opening of the Pocono Township branch, located at Route 715 and Warner Drive, next to United Way offices.
Jan 1990 The Pocono Township branch relocates to township building in Tannersville. The grand opening ceremony is celebrated March 23, 1990.
Sept 25, 1990 The Associated Libraries of Monroe County is created when Monroe County Public Library joins Pocono Mountain, Clymer, Barrett, and Western Pocono libraries. The Monroe County library then becomes known as the “Eastern Monroe Public Library.”
Sept 1990 Michelle Turbak resigns as director. Barbara Keiser serves as acting director until Phil Hearne is hired in 1994.
Feb 1991 Library celebrates 75th anniversary.
Nov 1991 Smithfield branch library opens for the first time. Originally scheduled to open in October, the opening had to be postponed due to a building inspection. The grand opening ceremony is celebrated on December 3, 1991.
May 18, 1993 Referendum effort passes that guarantees funding for library service. Election results: Yes, 5,085 ; No, 3,402
May 1994 Phil Hearne hired as library director.
Sum 1994 A location is chosen for the new library on Route 611 in Stroudsburg, the old Stroud’s Jewelers and Distributors building.
Nov 1994 It is announced that the new library will be named the Hughes Library, named after R. Dale Hughes and his family. Total donations from Mr. Hughes and the Hughes Foundation totaled $1 million.
Spring 1995 The first OPAC’s (Online Public Access Computers) are in use. The public can now search the library catalog from computer stations, donated by Nazareth National Bank.
Sum 1996 Staff and 150-200 volunteers prepare for move to new library location. Must move approximately 80,000 library materials.
Aug 19-25, 1996 Due to the move, annual book sale is held at the Stroud Mall.
Aug 31. 1996 EMPL opens main library named Hughes Public Library. It is finished on first floor only.
Nov 1, 1997 Gala Opening of Hughes Library held on unfinished second floor
Jan 1998 Manual check-outs cease as library goes to an automation system with MulitLIS.
Jan 1998 Second floor of Hughes Library opens releasing community meeting rooms on first floor; adult collection and staff work areas relocated to second floor.
Sept 1998 Phil Hearne leaves position of library director.
Jan 1999 Deb Messling hired as library director.
Mar 23, 2002 “Kick-off” event for newly purchased Bookmobile.
Jun 2002 Deb Messling resigns as library director.
Aug 2002 Alan Bobowski hired as library director.
Aug 24, 2002 R. Dale Hughes, local philanthropist and major donor to library, passed away.
Mar 2002 Service at the Monroe County Correctional Facility goes “live” with automated checkout.
Mar 2003 Library switches automation systems and goes live with SIRSI (Unicorn Workflows).
Jun 15, 2003 Ann Kane celebrates 50 years of library service.
Nov 2004 Alan Bobowski leaves position of library director.
2004 EMPL circulation exceeds 500,000 (all locations)
Jan 2005 Barbara Keiser appointed library director
Mar 2005 Rearrangement of 1st floor. The new layout helps accommodate for more audiovisual materials plus moves the young adult collection closer to the YA librarian’s office.
May/Jun 2005 Wireless Internet network added, accessible to patrons with laptops.
Aug 26, 2006 10th anniversary reception held for Hughes Library
Oct 2007 Resource room collection opens in Youth Services. The collection originally came from Pocono Healthy Communities Alliance.
Dec 2008 Commissioners increased tax millage to 1.1 mil.
5.11.2010
Frank Frazeta, master of fantasy art, dead at 82
FRANK FRAZETTA TIMELINE: A LIFE LIVED FOR ART (Pocono Record 5/11/2010)
Born Feb. 9, 1928, in Brooklyn, Frank Frazetta attends the Brooklyn Academy of Fine Arts at age 8.
He turns pro at age 16, after entering a painting in a scholastic art competition and is disqualified on the grounds that he had had professional help.
In 1944, Frazetta creates his first published comic, "The Snowman," a wooden idol resembling a snowman who comes to life to combat the evil of The Fang.
He paints the first Conan the Barbarian cover in 1966. The cover "knocked publishing on its ear," he said about the artwork in a 1985 interview.
Singer/entertainer Cher, making another comeback in 1979, had a new image in the form of bizarre costumes inspired by Frazetta's fantasy art.
In the early 1980s, Frazetta turns the upper floors of the former Masonic building at the corner of South Courtland and Washington streets in East Stroudsburg into a gallery. The art museum would be on the floors above Frazetta's Fantasy Corner and would not only house Frazetta's work, but offer display space to other artists in a separate gallery.
On July 17, 2009, his wife and business partner, Eleanor "Ellie" Frazetta, dies after a year-long battle with cancer. She oversaw the daily operations of the Frazetta Art Museum in East Stroudsburg. Frank and Ellie had been married 53 years.
Sources: Pocono Record archives; The Progress, Clearfield; "Fantasy Artist Frank Frazetta" by Cathi Sutton, hubpages.com; The Lawton Constitution, Lawton, Okla.
Born Feb. 9, 1928, in Brooklyn, Frank Frazetta attends the Brooklyn Academy of Fine Arts at age 8.
He turns pro at age 16, after entering a painting in a scholastic art competition and is disqualified on the grounds that he had had professional help.
In 1944, Frazetta creates his first published comic, "The Snowman," a wooden idol resembling a snowman who comes to life to combat the evil of The Fang.
He paints the first Conan the Barbarian cover in 1966. The cover "knocked publishing on its ear," he said about the artwork in a 1985 interview.
Singer/entertainer Cher, making another comeback in 1979, had a new image in the form of bizarre costumes inspired by Frazetta's fantasy art.
In the early 1980s, Frazetta turns the upper floors of the former Masonic building at the corner of South Courtland and Washington streets in East Stroudsburg into a gallery. The art museum would be on the floors above Frazetta's Fantasy Corner and would not only house Frazetta's work, but offer display space to other artists in a separate gallery.
On July 17, 2009, his wife and business partner, Eleanor "Ellie" Frazetta, dies after a year-long battle with cancer. She oversaw the daily operations of the Frazetta Art Museum in East Stroudsburg. Frank and Ellie had been married 53 years.
Sources: Pocono Record archives; The Progress, Clearfield; "Fantasy Artist Frank Frazetta" by Cathi Sutton, hubpages.com; The Lawton Constitution, Lawton, Okla.
4.06.2010
Pennsylvania Public Records
PennsylvaniaPublicRecord.com is a comprehensive resource for finding public record information by county, with important links to government websites and other state agencies to assist individuals with locating vital records, genealogy archives, court record documents, and other public record searches. PennsylvaniaPublicRecord.com was built to help people save time when requesting information or searching for records by directing them to the appropriate county or state agency.
3.25.2010
Child Life of Pennsylvania Germans
Just added to the Local History Room collection by Monroe Aurand, Jr.
Child Life of the Pennsylvania Germans. Childhood Days: Games and Sports, Folklore, Industry, School Days Halloween Toys, Reminiscences.
Child Life of the Pennsylvania Germans. Childhood Days: Games and Sports, Folklore, Industry, School Days Halloween Toys, Reminiscences.
2.17.2010
New jersey Civil War Treasury Vouchers 1861-1865
Civil War Treasury Vouchers, 1861-1865
The processing and indexing of New Jersey’s Civil War vouchers was made possible by the New Jersey Civil War Heritage Association (NJCWHA). This non-profit organization supplied a corps of volunteers to sort, flatten and folder nearly 16,000 documents, and—through grant funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission—contracted for the creation of a database to index them. New Jersey State Archives gratefully acknowledges the work of the NJCWHA volunteers: Laurie Berg, Louis “Jim” Bordonaro, Jack FitzPatrick, Leroy Bruce Jones, Charles Larkin and Joseph Seliga.
New Jersey’s Civil War-period treasury vouchers collection includes 15,770 payment receipts for military expenditures and wartime purchases made by the State of New Jersey from 1861 through 1866. It includes soldiers' discharge certificates for final pay (over 9,300 items), affidavits of family members for pay due to deceased soldiers (over 1,400 items), and quarterly returns of the counties and cities listing the names of soldiers’ families and dependant mothers who received subsistence pay during their service. In all, nearly 114,000 index entries provide access to the content of the documents.
You may search by any combination of Last Name, First Name, Regiment, County, and/or Years. Entering the initial letter or string of letters into the Name Fields will return all records beginning with that string. To search on a string within a name, simply type "%" followed by the string. The spelling of personal names in the vouchers is often inconsistent and it advisable to try variant spellings. Where possible cross references to variant spellings for soldiers found in William S. Stryker's Record of Officers and Men of New Jersey in the Civil War, 1861-1865 (Trenton, NJ: 1876) is provided, and the database automatically searches them. The Stryker variants, when applied, are given at the end of the voucher description.
For more information about the vouchers and other Civil War Era records held at the Archives please consult the Civil War Collections referenced in our catalog. See also Civil War Grant Project.
The processing and indexing of New Jersey’s Civil War vouchers was made possible by the New Jersey Civil War Heritage Association (NJCWHA). This non-profit organization supplied a corps of volunteers to sort, flatten and folder nearly 16,000 documents, and—through grant funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission—contracted for the creation of a database to index them. New Jersey State Archives gratefully acknowledges the work of the NJCWHA volunteers: Laurie Berg, Louis “Jim” Bordonaro, Jack FitzPatrick, Leroy Bruce Jones, Charles Larkin and Joseph Seliga.
New Jersey’s Civil War-period treasury vouchers collection includes 15,770 payment receipts for military expenditures and wartime purchases made by the State of New Jersey from 1861 through 1866. It includes soldiers' discharge certificates for final pay (over 9,300 items), affidavits of family members for pay due to deceased soldiers (over 1,400 items), and quarterly returns of the counties and cities listing the names of soldiers’ families and dependant mothers who received subsistence pay during their service. In all, nearly 114,000 index entries provide access to the content of the documents.
You may search by any combination of Last Name, First Name, Regiment, County, and/or Years. Entering the initial letter or string of letters into the Name Fields will return all records beginning with that string. To search on a string within a name, simply type "%" followed by the string. The spelling of personal names in the vouchers is often inconsistent and it advisable to try variant spellings. Where possible cross references to variant spellings for soldiers found in William S. Stryker's Record of Officers and Men of New Jersey in the Civil War, 1861-1865 (Trenton, NJ: 1876) is provided, and the database automatically searches them. The Stryker variants, when applied, are given at the end of the voucher description.
For more information about the vouchers and other Civil War Era records held at the Archives please consult the Civil War Collections referenced in our catalog. See also Civil War Grant Project.
2.16.2010
War Department Papers
This site makes available 55,000 documents of the early War Department. Many thought to be lost in the fire of 1800.
http://wardepartmentpapers.org
http://wardepartmentpapers.org
Historic American Newspapers
Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers
Welcome to Chronicling America, enhancing access to America's historic newspapers. This site allows you to search and view newspaper pages from 1880-1922 and find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present. Chronicling America is sponsored jointly by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress as part of the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP).
Welcome to Chronicling America, enhancing access to America's historic newspapers. This site allows you to search and view newspaper pages from 1880-1922 and find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present. Chronicling America is sponsored jointly by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress as part of the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)