Woolworth Community Library
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History
C.D. and Martha Woolworth, two of nine children of Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Woolworth, came to Jal, NM in 1915 to file on a homestead six miles north of the present town. They "lived out" their claim and purchased additional land. Their sisters lived in San Angelo, Texas and also purchased land in the area. Petroleum was found and for almost fifty years provided income for the family.
Two of the sisters, May and Elizabeth indicated a desire to do something for Jal in memory of the sisters and brother who pioneered here. A library was suggested and their wills drawn with the provision in them.
Two other sisters, Clara and Litie left their estates to May and Elizabeth. Their brother, Dr. J.D. Woolworth left a portion of his estate to the library. In this manner, most of the family actually contributed.
The Woolworth Room was designed to house original furnishings from the Woolworh home and historical information about Clyde and Martha Woolworth.
Through the endowment of the generous Woolworth sisters, the library opened in August, 1978.