Public Invited to Attend The Hayner Public Library District’s Genealogy & Local History Library Holiday Open House

Submitted by Hayner Public Library

Dec 3, 2025 11:54 AM

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ALTON - The Hayner Public Library District’s Genealogy & Local History Library will be transformed into a Victorian-inspired holiday wonderland when the library hosts its annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. “This is always a fantastic event,” said Executive Director Mary Cordes. “The Genealogy and Local History Library is one of the most beautiful buildings in our District (which covers Alton, Godfrey, and Foster Township), and even more so when it’s decorated for the holidays.” The library building, located at 401 State Street, Alton, was completed in 1901 with funds donated by Alton businessman John E. Hayner, in memory of his late wife Jennie D. Hayner. Architect Theodore Link, who designed St. Louis’s Union Station Railroad Depot was hired by the library directors to design the building. The architecture is Old English, Gothic style with a vaulted ceiling and dog-tooth trimmings. The building materials are red brick, with Alton and Bedford stone over windows and entrances, and a basement of Alton limestone. Inside, the wood is oak and yellow pine. All building materials and labor were obtained locally. Two fireplaces were added for both heating and ornamental purposes. An annex, funded by Hayner’s heirs – wife Mary Catherine (Kate) Hayner, daughter Florence Hayner Haskell, and grandson John Haskell – was added in 1907. Inspired by the historic time period of the building’s origin, Hayner Library staff have decorated the building in Victorian-era décor, creating the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of fun for the whole family. “Our staff members Reneé Johnson, Sheri Bangert, and Josh Crider have worked very hard to ensure that the building looks perfect for our patrons,” said Cordes. “The Holiday Open House is a great opportunity for patrons to visit the library and take in the decorations, learn about the services provided at the Genealogy & Local History Library, and get in the holiday spirit,” said Cordes. “We even encourage you to stop in a take a quick family photo around the fireplace!” The library will have cookies, lemonade, and a brand-new Genealogy & Local History Library puzzle to put together in front of the fireplace. Enjoy the decorations, create family history crafts to take home, and purchase your copy of the rhyming picture book Alton ABC! Staff members will also be available to help you think about ways to connect with your family history during holiday gatherings.

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