Administered under a charter granted in 1894 by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York, the Fort Plain Free Library serves the community by providing a wide range of recreational and informational materials in a variety of formats. The library’s welcome center makes information about local history, current attractions, and sites of interest available to visitors and residents alike and additionally serves as a meeting and programming space. The library is run in an efficient, cost-effective manner and is an inviting space staffed by friendly, helpful people.

Its myriad services include the circulation of more traditional materials such as books, periodicals, DVD’s, music CD’s, and audiobooks that are available onsite as well as through interlibrary loan through the Mohawk Valley Library (MVLS) and Southern Adirondack Library systems. Patrons are also able to access eBooks and digital magazines through MVLS’s Zinio for Libraries digital newsstand.

They can also take full advantage of the library’s secure computer terminals and wireless Internet, fax, and printing/photocopying services.

The library is a hub for the community, hosting youth and adult programming as well as groups.

Included among the children’s offerings are seasonal programs, preschool story hours, Art Box and Art Express, the annual Summer Reading Program, children’s afterschool tutoring, and Captain Science, a STEM program that introduces science, technology, engineering and math principles to older youths.

Programming geared toward adult patrons includes book discussions and educational talks such as those conducted by chef Aaron Katovitch on food history. The library also provides study space for trained volunteers associated with Literacy New York-Fulton, Montgomery and Schoharie Counties.

Additionally, the library sponsors weekly circles such as the Creative Textile Fiber group, a casual assemblage of individuals who gather to socialize and engage in handcrafts such as knitting, crocheting, and felting, for example; and the Writer’s Group at Fort Plain, whose diverse members offer advice, constructive criticism, and encouragement to fellow wordsmiths drafting creative fiction, nonfiction, and poems.

Finally, the library has a collection of genealogical materials and local history books, some of which can be borrowed. Other books and artifacts must be viewed on-site.