 Jayford "Jayfe" Ware, was known as a successful farmer who focused on education for his children, even the girls. Three of his daughters became teachers. Older Clay residents said books could be seen on shelves along the hallway in the house. That makes this 1905 farm home the most appropriate location for a library.
When the City purchased the 104 acres that is now the Clay City Park, a councilwoman mentioned the house might make a good library. The young city did not have a lot of revenue, so they looked to grants to make improvements to the property for athletic fields. This took time.
As work was continuing on the fields, the Clay City Council of that time considered destroying the house and accompanying structures, including a three-tier barn, a rare style in this area. Some Clay residents called for the homestead to be preserved.
The barn and a few other structures did not survive the year-long conflict, but the house was saved.
More money was needed to complete the renovations. Former Jefferson County Commissioner Bettye Fine Collins put up $25,000. Other residents donated funds and labor. Finally, after a change in city leadership, the City put up the rest of the money, and the Clay Public Library was on track to becoming a reality.
At first, whether the house could be included in the Jefferson County Library Cooperative was questioned. Then in early 2009, the news came that the Clay Public Library could join, making it the 40th affiliated library. This brought many more services for the patrons, more funding and lots of practical assistance.
Patrons can access many of the library services, including ordering from other JCLC libraries and help with tutoring, from their home through the JCLC Web site.
More Clay Public Library Information and Resources:
Address, Contact, Phone, Hours
Library Card and Usage Information
Jefferson County Library Cooperative Services
Clay Public Library Services
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Library History
