The mission of the Simsbury Free Library is to connect people through genealogical research, historical and cultural programming to foster community belonging.
SFL envisions a community enriched, inspired, and unified by its heritage and cultural evolution.
What We Do and Why the SFL Mission Matters
The executive director, historical archivist, and a genealogical expert assist patrons with research and programming efforts. The Simsbury Genealogical and Historical Research Library and the William P. Eno Memorial Center are integral to the SFL. Mr. William Phelps Eno is the internationally recognized “Father of Traffic Regulation and Transportation Engineering.” The SFL also stores and preserves the archives of the Ensign Bickford company, a town staple since 1836.
The SFL hosts several community events on an ongoing basis. These include: MLK Day, Paint Nights, Simsbury Celebrates Gingerbread House Exhibit, and nonprofit group meetings (Simsbury Cemetery Association, Jr. Women’s, Second Chance Shop, and Friends of the Farmington River Watershed and Friends of the Heublein Tower board meetings).
The SFL houses various rare books, paintings, and artifacts such as town, county, and state histories, the Barbour Collection of CT Town Vital Records, family histories, census records, the International Genealogical Index, DAR lineage books, military records, and genealogical periodicals. The SFL has published a quarterly newsletter, several reference books, and a series of Farmington Canal maps.
The SFL appreciates diversity and is a proud community partner. We have worked collaboratively with Simsbury Public High School on several programming projects. These include programs highlighting the Great Depression, WWII, and the creation of the MLK in Connecticut Memorial. The MLK Memorial is the first memorial in New England dedicated to the legendary leader. The MLK Memorial also has the distinction of being included in the official Freedom Trail.
All of the SFL’s efforts reflect commitment to preserving the essence of our community’s identity. Because of your support for the SFL services, patrons have:
Identity and Roots: Our historical materials and artifacts house the collective memory of our town. By preserving documents, photographs, and artifacts, we ensure that current and future generations can trace their roots, fostering a deep sense of identity and belonging.
Connection Across Generations: Genealogy research bridges gaps between generations. It connects the stories of our ancestors to the experiences of today, creating a powerful narrative that strengthens family bonds and community ties.
Educational Resources: Our archives serve as a valuable educational resource. Students, researchers, and curious minds can explore primary sources, gaining insights into the evolution of our town, promoting a greater understanding of our shared history.
Cultural Enrichment: Cultural programming enhances the vibrancy of our community and creates a platform for community engagement. Ongoing events and programs bring residents together, encouraging dialogue, shared experiences, and a sense of unity, reinforcing the ties that bind us.
Preservation of Vanishing Stories: With the aging of the Greatest and Silent generations, many stories are at risk of being lost to time. Our services actively work to preserve family and community stories. Archiving these narratives will ensure that the tales of ordinary and extraordinary lives are here for future generations.
