From the November 7, 2002 edition of The Wayne Herald
Fundraising ongoing for new library in Wakefield
Funds are being raised for a new library in Wakefield. Nov. 1 marked the 87th anniversary of the opening of the Graves Public Library located at 206 West Third Street.
With age, the building is deteriorating. It does not meed ADA requirements and lacks space in the library for books and equipment.
Looking back, the building, its furnishings and 300 books were a gift from Philo Graves in memory of his 7-year-old son, Jay Philo Graves who died of diphtheria.
Graves, a philanthropist, gave much to the town as he also helped establish the school, donated land for the park, provided money and land to establish churches and helped start some of the businesses.
While Graves put a lot of thought into the planning of the facility by visiting other libraries first, he could not have realized the physical needs and changes the building would undergo through the years.
Not only has the number of books (about 13,500 now) and materials outgrown the available space in the library, but weather and the elements have taken their toll on the structure.
While a new library has been needed for some time, there's been a push by the library board and foundation lately to get funds for the project.
The foundation sent out an alumni mailing asking for donations and recent fundraisers included a pie stand during ball games this summer and a rummage/bake sale held a month ago. Future fundraisers are also being planned.
