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Draft:Mount Vernon Public Library

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Mount Vernon Public Library

The Mount Vernon Public Library is a public library located in Mount Vernon, New York. Serving as the central hub of information, learning, and community engagement for the city, it is one of the largest public libraries in Westchester County. The library offers a wide array of services including access to books, digital resources, educational programming, technology access, and cultural events.

History Established in the late 19th century, the Mount Vernon Public Library has long been an integral institution in the city’s civic and cultural life. The library became a chartered school district public library, meaning its budget is voted on annually by Mount Vernon residents, and it operates independently of city governance while still serving the city's population.

The library is housed in a historic building on South First Avenue, a structure known for its distinctive architecture and central location. Over the decades, the library has evolved from a traditional book-lending facility into a modern public institution offering a wide range of multimedia materials, technology access, and dynamic programming.

Services and Programs The Mount Vernon Public Library provides services for patrons of all ages. Its offerings include:

Youth and Teen Services: Homework help, early literacy programs, arts and crafts, STEAM activities, and summer reading initiatives. Adult Services: Career resources, computer literacy training, author talks, book clubs, and legal and financial workshops. Technology Access: Free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and faxing services, and access to databases and eBooks. Local History and Archives: A dedicated room for Mount Vernon’s historical documents, photos, and records is open to researchers and the public. Community Engagement As one of Mount Vernon's key civic institutions, the library actively collaborates with local schools, cultural organizations, and municipal agencies. It hosts events such as concerts, health clinics, community town halls, and heritage celebrations. The library also serves as an important "third space" for residents—a place beyond home and work where individuals can connect, learn, and grow.

Governance The Mount Vernon Public Library is governed by a publicly elected Board of Trustees. The board is responsible for establishing library policies, overseeing the budget, hiring and evaluating the library director, and ensuring that the library continues to meet the evolving needs of the community. Trustees serve staggered five-year terms and are elected by registered voters in the Mount Vernon City School District.

The board operates with the support of several standing committees, including Policy & Governance, Finance, and Personnel, which help manage specific areas of oversight and strategic planning.

As of 2025, the Mount Vernon Public Library Board of Trustees includes:

Hope Marable – President (term ends June 30, 2026) Loretta Thomas – Vice President (term ends June 30, 2027) Kim Harper – Secretary (term ends June 30, 2029) Hudson Trader – Trustee (term ends June 30, 2025) Cynthia Crenshaw – Trustee (term ends June 30, 2025) The library director, Timur Davis, serves as the chief administrator of the library, reporting to the board and overseeing all staff, operations, and programming.

Recent Developments In recent years, the library has undergone modernization efforts to expand access and meet the evolving needs of the community. These include the implementation of new digital services, upgraded facilities, and expanded outreach initiatives. The library continues to develop a long-range plan to ensure its sustainability and relevance in a changing informational landscape.

External Links Mount Vernon Public Library Official Website

References

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https://mountvernonpubliclibrary.org