Ashton & Lilly, Kentucky
Photo and Interview by Ashton and Lilly
Interview with Mr. Jon Nicholson, Local History department at the Boyle County Public Library(BCPL)
When was the BCPL created? Has its' purpose changed over time?
The library was created in 1893 as a subscription library, it cost $3 initially then $1 every year after. Over time it eventually became free to the public. The first purpose-built library for us is still in use as our Reading Room and it was completed in 1937. The library was segregated until 1956.
Libraries are really the place of knowledge and stories. Originally this was mainly through books, but libraries have adapted to meet a more technologically diverse world. We now offer apps for our patrons to use, book deliveries, events, programming, computer help, printers, classes, tax services, local history research services, and many more things. The main theme is, libraries have become more democratized over time. There are very few subscription libraries left.
What is the most interesting thing about the library's past to you?
The Boyle County Library has been incredibly resilient, most subscription libraries did not adapt to survive as public libraries, this makes the BCPL unique and nearly a century older than many other libraries in Kentucky. Also, the commitment to remaining downtown and to keep our original building in everyday use is really important as a way to be connected to the community throughout time.
What is your favorite part of the library? Why?
Definitely the oldest parts, hah! I am a historian so the original library and the Mahan House (which is the art gallery) are both interesting as historic buildings.
What is one(or more) thing(s) you think that the library has done to bring the community together?
Stepping in to preserve Boyle County's history when other institutions like the Historical Society have closed. We have an extensive archive of local historic material, which is unique for a library our size to have, and we have the professionals on staff to make that material accessible to the public. Over the next five years we plan to digitize much of what we have and also to create mobile Oral History and Digitization labs that will preserve family and local histories through the county.
On a non-historic note, I think the library is one of the only freely accessible and non-judgemental places for the community to come to. We are the only place downtown that you can come into without any expectation of purchasing anything. You can just come and hang out, read a book, or do your homework in peace. We are also open late two nights a week, which I think is important for people who may only have free time in the evenings. One last thing, we offer programs that are absolutely free to the community. We are hosting a large history conference in August bringing in some well-known speakers from throughout the state, and it won't cost the public anything to attend.