eAudio Books
History and Mission Statement
Our Mission
Our Mission is to assure that the Western Allegheny Community Library provides the resources that bring the world to our community
Our History
Western Area Friends to Establish a Library, WAFEL, began on January 21, 1988 when four residents, Claudia Wagner and Kate Nicholson from North Fayette and Cathy Cummings and Liz Zamule from Oakdale met to discuss the formation of a community library in their area. WAFEL decided to meet with the township supervisors, boro council and later West Allegheny School administrators who all supported a library. The latter suggested that since Findlay Township is part of the school district they should be also included in the library project.
In May 1988 WAFEL asked 30 area libraries for materials. They received book shelves, a card catalog, children's furniture and over 12,000 books. Throughout the next year, the three communities worked together to raise money, participated in local community fairs, increased WAFEL membership to 14, and with the assistance of Representative "Huck" Gamble, received a $50,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs.
The grant money was given to North Fayette Township in return for five years' lease on a 2,400 square-foot section of the former Imperial Christian Academy on Old Steubenville Pike. The official "grand opening" celebration was held Nov. 12-17, 1990. The library opened with 3,400 books on the shelves.
Many changes have taken place since the opening of our doors. In 1995 operating time was expanded from 30 to 52 hours due to the money from the RAD tax. In 1996, due to a donation from an anonymous donor, the library purchased new book shelves,new circulation desk and new furniture in the adult and children's areas. The Western Allegheny Community Library continues to grow and flourish along with the surrounding communities.
In the spring of 1999 the library expanded into 1,200 sq. ft. of new space - which is the new Children's Area. This was made possible with the help of State Representative John Pippy by obtaining a $30,000.00 grant for community revitalization. North Fayette Township built the new addition. Also a new library sign has been installed with funds from state aid and Allegheny Regional Assets District Monies. The collection has grown to over 35,000 materials which includes books, audio cassettes, videos, magazines and newspapers.
