About the Ester Library
About the Library
The John Trigg Ester Library is a small community library located in the heart of Ester, Alaska. Although we are a membership library in the sense that you need to be a member in order to use our high-speed internet or check out seeds from the seed library, you do not have to be a member in order to check out books, games or puzzles. Additionally, we have a small meeting area, warm and cozy chairs from which to read in, and we regularly host knit nights, children’s programs, writing groups, music groups and seed swaps. We are always looking for other events that the community would like us to sponsor!
Mission | Organization | Facilities | History
Mission
Our mission is to provide books, technology and resources, such as a seed library and family activities, for the betterment of the Ester community. We also collect and preserve local history, organize programs, and provide a meeting space for eclectic groups, which fosters learning, discussion, creativity, and engagement. In addition, JTEL’s mission is to build a new landmark library that not only meets the highest standards of sustainability and design but also serves as a hub for creativity and connection.
Facilities
The main building of the John Trigg Ester Library is located in the Clausen Cabin, at 3629 Main Street. We also own the Ida Lane Gazebo and associated outhouse at 504 Village Road (across from the Ester Post Office). Our New Building, is under construction at 488 Village Road.
The Clausen Cabin
Ida Lane Gazebo
Future Building
History
The original Ester library was founded in 1999 as a reading room by Frank Therrell and expanded into a check-out library by Deirdre Helfferich. It was informally known as Frank’s Place and was in a 1st floor rented room in downtown Ester at 3618 Main Street.
The library changed its name to honor John Trigg in 2000, after his untimely death. John was an avid storyteller and reader who started a book exchange in the Golden Eagle.
The links below provide more detailed information about the history of our library, about John Trigg, and about the Clausen Family.
Library History
Meet John Trigg
The Clausen Family
