Akin Free Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Akin Free Library
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Library building in March 2007
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 Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | 378 Old Quaker Hill Rd., Pawling, New York 12564 |
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| Area | 1.7 acres (0.69 ha) |
| Built | 1908 |
| Architect | John A. Wood |
| Architectural style | Late Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 91001726 |
| Added to NRHP | November 21, 1991 |
The Akin Free Library is a historic stone building in Quaker Hill, New York. It's famous for its unique "Victorian eclectic" style. This means it mixes different design ideas from the Victorian era. The building is so special that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. This list includes important places across the United States.
The library was a gift from Albert J. Akin (1803–1903). He was a Quaker, which is a member of a Christian group known for its simple lifestyle. Albert Akin also started the Bank of Pawling and the Mizzentop Hotel. The building was designed by architect John A. Wood. It was built between 1898 and 1908.
The library building is quite large, with 2½ stories. It has a special "T" shape and a tall, three-story clock tower in the middle. You'll also notice a grand entrance area called a portico. The roof is made of copper, and the building has fancy decorations called a cornice.
What You'll Find Inside
The Akin Free Library is more than just a place to borrow books. It also houses two interesting museums!
The Library Collection
The main library is on the first floor of the building. It has thousands of books for everyone. You can find books about local history and books written by authors from the area. There's also a special section just for kids. Plus, you can read old newspaper collections to learn about the past.
Historical Society Museum
The Historical Society Museum is located on the second floor. This museum shows what life was like in the past in Quaker Hill. You can see old clothing, tools, and artwork. There are even bowling pins from the old Mizzentop Hotel. The museum also has the service window from the original Quaker Hill Post Office.
Olive Gunnison Natural History Museum
On the lower floor, you'll discover the Olive Gunnison Natural History Museum. This museum is full of amazing natural wonders. It displays about 200 mounted birds, showing different types of birds up close. You can also see collections of rocks and minerals. It's a great place to learn about nature and the world around us.
See also
In Spanish: Biblioteca Akin Free para niños
