Akin Free Library

• December 31, 1848-Albert J. Akin raised enough money to have the first train run through Pawling
  
  • The railroad helped transform Pawling into a more connected and economically active town
    
  • The arrival of the railroad helped increase trade, tourism, and travel through the village
    
• 1881-Akin Hall Association was formed
  
  • Set out to promote the betterment of the quality of life in Pawling
    
  • The organization focused on educational, cultural, and social improvements for the community
    
  • The Akin Hall Association became one of the most important civic organizations in Pawling
    
• August 13, 1898-The Akin Hall Association was told to make a free library and the corner stone was laid before taking 10 years to complete, opening on August 14, 1908
  
  • The library was named in honor of Albert J. Akin
    
  • The building was designed in the Classical Revival architectural style
    
  • The library was built using locally quarried stone and brick
    
  • The library originally included reading rooms, meeting areas, and book collections for public use
    
  • The construction of the library was funded through donations and support from local residents
    
  • The library became an important educational center for both children and adults
    
• 1908-The Akin Free Library officially opened to the public
  
  • Residents could borrow books and attend public gatherings inside the building
    
  • The library gave many residents access to books and information they otherwise could not afford
    
  • The library became a symbol of education and civic pride in Pawling
    
• 1921-When the Pawling Free Library first opened it was open 1 day a week and supplied with books that were donated by the community
  
  • Many of the original books were donated by local families and organizations
    
  • Community members volunteered time to help operate the library
    
  • The library continued to expand its collections throughout the 1920’s and 1930’s
    
  • The library became a gathering place for educational programs and local meetings
    
• The Akin Free Library also preserved many historical documents connected to Pawling history
  
  • The library collected photographs, newspapers, records, and artifacts from the town
    
  • Historical exhibits were later displayed inside the library building
    
  • The library became heavily involved in preserving Pawling’s historical identity
    
• 1973-The Pawling Public Library continued to grow and made an addition that expanded the facilities
  
  • The expansion allowed for more books, office space, and public programs
    
  • The updated facilities helped the library serve a growing population in Pawling
    
  • The library continued hosting educational and cultural events for the community
    
  • The library later became home to the Harold C. Banks Research Center
    
  • The research center preserved maps, photographs, family histories, and local records
    
  • The library became one of the most important historical research locations in Dutchess County
    
• Students, historians, and residents used the library for research about Pawling and the Harlem Valley
  
• The Akin Free Library remains an active part of the Pawling community today
  
  • The building continues to serve as both a library and historical center
    
  • The library hosts historical lectures, exhibits, educational events, and community programs throughout the year
    
• The Akin Free Library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places