The History of the Dormann Library
1869–1904: The Beginning
The Bath Library Association was first formed in 1869 by a group of visionary citizens including Guy H. McMaster, Reuben E. Robie, William B. Ruggles, Charles F. Kingsley, and others. The library opened in the courthouse in 1870, offering a collection of 394 books—63 of which were donated. During a time of financial difficulty, the New York State Legislature passed the “Relief of the Bath Library” act, allowing fines and penalties collected by the town and village to be used to purchase library materials.
The land on which the library now sits was originally purchased in 1828 by John Magee, who built a large brick house surrounded by lawns and gardens. After a series of owners, the home was sold in 1893 to Ira Davenport Jr., a generous library supporter. He donated 600 books and allowed the library to move into the former Magee residence, which then became known as the Davenport Library. Upon his death in 1904, Davenport willed the property to the library association, along with $40,000 and a business block on Liberty Street.
1905–1993: Continued Growth and Community Support
Over the decades, Davenport’s initial gifts were followed by many others from individuals invested in the library’s future. Funds from the town and village helped finance improvements, including transforming the basement (formerly the Magee family’s kitchen and servants’ quarters) into children’s reading rooms and an employee office.
In 1982, the library received materials for a book barn, which was erected behind the parking lot. Staffed by volunteers, it sold donated books to raise funds for new materials. In 1993, thanks to a bequest from Gertrude Brace, the library transitioned from handwritten checkouts to the more accurate Gaylord Charging System.
1998–2010: A New Chapter Begins
In 1998, the original book barn was replaced with the Jim and Marion Hope Book Barn, honoring two devoted volunteers. A second book barn was added and named for Judi and Dale White. Judi was a long-term board member and maintained the book barns for many years until her untimely death in 2016.
Also in 1998, the library launched the STARCAT online catalog system, which provided barcode tracking, new library cards, and access to the holdings of the entire Southern Tier Library System.
Faced with space limitations, the library board decided to construct a new facility on the same property. A pivotal $500,000 donation from Henry and Alice Dormann, through the Young Leadership Foundation, along with a significant bequest from the Dallas Mathewson Estate and generous community support, made the project possible. The library was renamed the Dormann Library in honor of the Dormanns. Construction began in April 1998 and was completed in January 1999. Community members, including school children, formed a human chain to pass books from the old library to the new—truly a labor of love.
In 2009, the library completed a $750,000 capital project to expand the north end of the building by over 3,000 square feet. This addition provided office and storage spaces, a quiet room, a small conference room, and a dedicated children’s classroom.
2010–2019: Growing with the Community
Following the expansion, the library focused on strengthening core services and preparing for future growth. Programming for children and families was expanded, and efforts were made to stay current with technological changes and digital access. New partnerships further solidified the Dormann Library’s role as a center of literacy and education. As the community evolved, so did the library’s services. Programs for teens and adults expanded, and the library became a hub for cultural and educational events.
2020–2021: Meeting the Moment
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the library responded quickly and creatively. Curbside pickup, virtual story times, and expanded digital collections helped the community stay connected. The library also offered vital tech assistance and support for remote learning—serving as a steady, reliable presence in uncertain times.
Facility improvements and equipment upgrades ensured the space remained both welcoming and functional.
2022–2023: A Renewed Vision for the Future
Emerging from the pandemic, the Dormann Library launched a strategic planning process focused on accessibility, inclusion, and sustainability. One of the most exciting outcomes of this effort was the development of plans for an Outdoor Learning Space—an innovative initiative designed to blend literacy and nature through gardens, trails, a water feature, and interactive features for all ages.
At the same time, the library addressed critical infrastructure needs. In 2022, with assistance from New York State Construction Aid, the library replaced its aging roof. The following year, the HVAC system was upgraded using investment income, ensuring a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment for staff and patrons.
2022–2023: A Renewed Vision for the Future
Emerging from the pandemic, the Dormann Library launched a strategic planning process focused on accessibility, inclusion, and sustainability. One of the most exciting outcomes of this effort was the development of plans for an Outdoor Learning Space—an innovative initiative designed to blend literacy and nature through gardens, trails, a water feature, and interactive features for all ages.
At the same time, the library addressed critical infrastructure needs. In 2022, with assistance from New York State Construction Aid, the library replaced its aging roof. The following year, the HVAC system was upgraded using investment income, ensuring a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment for staff and patrons.
2024–Present: Building and Growing
In 2025, the library celebrated the completion of the Robert & Edith Saxton Memorial Pavilion—the first feature of the Outdoor Learning Space. With support from the Community Foundation, the Village of Bath Street Department, and generous community donors, the pavilion quickly became a hub for outdoor story times, educational events, and community gatherings.
Further improvements followed. In 2024, the parking lot was repaved, and the library’s original carpet—now 25 years old—was replaced thanks to a generous bequest from the Robison family. In 2025, the original circulation desk from the 1998 building was replaced, enhancing both the function and appearance of the library’s front area.
These projects represent not only a physical transformation of the space, but a continued investment in the library’s role as a welcoming, dynamic center for learning and connection.
A Living Legacy
The Dormann Library continues to thrive thanks to the foresight, generosity, and dedication of its supporters. We are especially grateful to the Dormann family and to all who contribute their time, resources, and vision. Their commitment ensures that the library remains a vital educational and cultural resource for generations to come.
Today, the Dormann Library stands as a beacon of lifelong learning and community connection—honoring its remarkable past while boldly embracing the opportunities of the future.
