| GERMAN-MASONTOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY |
| History of Our Library |
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The building that houses the German-Masontown Public Library in Masontown, Fayette County, Pennsylvania,
is considered an historic treasure of the area. The building, at present-day 9 South Washington Street (once
Neff Avenue), was originally the Beth-El Synagogue. The land was donated by Mr. and Mrs. William Bush
specifically to erect the synagogue in 1924.
After the Beth-El congregation disbanded in Masontown, the congregation made the gracious gesture in late
1957 of donating the building and land to the community of Masontown with the stipulation that the building
would be used as a Community and Library Center. Through the work and funds of many citizens, community
organizations, and government agencies, a library finally was established in 1965 in the building that had been
the Beth-El Synagogue.
The formal opening and dedication of the German-Masontown Public Library was on Sunday, February 13,
1966. Many dedicated people have worked hard through the years to continue this library and to maintain this
building which is important to German Township, Masontown Borough, Nicholson Township, and the
surrounding areas in the Albert Gallatin School District.
The above information was written and provided by DR. PATRICIA LUBITS-GUMP (2005)
2006 marked an exciting milestone as the German-Masontown Public Library celebrated its 40th
ANNIVERSARY of service to the community. Several events to commemorate this momentous
accomplishment were made possible through the generous support of many individuals, groups, and municipal
leaders.
As we begin to write a new chapter in the history of German-Masontown Public Library, we look back with
admiration and appreciation to all those who have worked so tirelessly and unselfishly to develop and preserve
this community treasure of education and enjoyment. We also look forward with excitement and determination
as we strive to continue the legacy of life-long learning for future generations.
is considered an historic treasure of the area. The building, at present-day 9 South Washington Street (once
Neff Avenue), was originally the Beth-El Synagogue. The land was donated by Mr. and Mrs. William Bush
specifically to erect the synagogue in 1924.
After the Beth-El congregation disbanded in Masontown, the congregation made the gracious gesture in late
1957 of donating the building and land to the community of Masontown with the stipulation that the building
would be used as a Community and Library Center. Through the work and funds of many citizens, community
organizations, and government agencies, a library finally was established in 1965 in the building that had been
the Beth-El Synagogue.
The formal opening and dedication of the German-Masontown Public Library was on Sunday, February 13,
1966. Many dedicated people have worked hard through the years to continue this library and to maintain this
building which is important to German Township, Masontown Borough, Nicholson Township, and the
surrounding areas in the Albert Gallatin School District.
The above information was written and provided by DR. PATRICIA LUBITS-GUMP (2005)
2006 marked an exciting milestone as the German-Masontown Public Library celebrated its 40th
ANNIVERSARY of service to the community. Several events to commemorate this momentous
accomplishment were made possible through the generous support of many individuals, groups, and municipal
leaders.
As we begin to write a new chapter in the history of German-Masontown Public Library, we look back with
admiration and appreciation to all those who have worked so tirelessly and unselfishly to develop and preserve
this community treasure of education and enjoyment. We also look forward with excitement and determination
as we strive to continue the legacy of life-long learning for future generations.
