Horse-Riding Librarians: The Great Depression Bookmobiles of Kentucky
Background
During the Great Depression, the New Deal’s Pack Horse Library initiative brought books to remote areas of Kentucky. This unique program sent librarians on horseback to distribute reading materials to isolated communities.
Challenges and Impacts
Despite their dedication, Pack Horse Librarians faced numerous challenges. Impassable roads and suspicious locals were just some of the obstacles they encountered. However, they persisted, earning the trust of mountain families by reading Bible passages aloud and connecting them with a wealth of knowledge.
The Role of Local Support
The success of the Pack Horse Library relied heavily on local support. “Libraries” were established in churches, post offices, and other available facilities. Carriers, who often used their own horses or mules, transported books from these outposts to homes and schools.
Preserving and Repurposing Books
Due to the scarcity of resources, librarians went to great lengths to preserve and repurpose books. They repaired damaged books and turned worn-out materials into new reading material. They also collected recipes and quilt patterns, which became popular among mountain communities.
Community Impact
The Pack Horse Library had a profound impact on literacy and education in Kentucky. Children who had never accessed a library before now had the opportunity to explore the world through books. Adults, many of whom were illiterate, relied on their children to decipher illustrated books, fostering a shared love of reading.
Cultural Significance
The Pack Horse Library played a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of Appalachia. By providing access to reading materials, it helped maintain a connection to the outside world. The stories and experiences of Pack Horse Librarians continue to inspire and educate generations.
Legacy and Evolution
The Pack Horse Library ended in 1943, but its legacy lived on. Motorized bookmobiles took over the task of delivering books to rural areas, and Kentucky became a leader in bookmobile services. Today, Kentucky’s public libraries operate the largest number of bookmobiles in the nation, ensuring that the spirit of the Pack Horse Library continues to thrive.
Anecdotes and Stories
Nan Milan, a Pack Horse Librarian who covered an eight-mile radius from Pine Mountain Settlement School, joked that her horses had shorter legs on one side to prevent them from sliding off steep mountain paths.
One Pittsburgh benefactor collected reading material and shared stories she had heard from Pack Horse Librarians. One child had asked, “Let the book lady leave us something to read on Sundays and at night when we get through hoeing the corn.”
Conclusion
The Pack Horse Library of Kentucky stands as a testament to the power of education and the dedication of those who strive to bring it to all corners of society. By overcoming challenges and fostering community partnerships, these horse-riding librarians played a pivotal role in shaping the literary landscape of Appalachia.