Mary E. Babcock (1908-1998)

These three photos of Mary E. Babcock show her at different stages of her life, such as 17 years of age in the first photo.

The Mary E. Babcock Library is located at 320 N. Main Street in Johnstown, Ohio.

Mary Elizabeth Babcock (1908-1998) was born in Marengo, Ohio, but moved to Johnstown when she was nine years old and spent most of her life in the Johnstown community.

Her father, Thomas W. Babcock, was a prominent broker and school board member in the village. Mary graduated from Johnstown High School in 1925, after which she attended Denison University and graduated from The Ohio State University in 1930.

Miss Babcock taught for 18 years in the public school systems in Ohio and California.

She is the founder of the Mary E. Babcock Foundation which is devoted to beautification, culture and education in Johnstown. She always engaged in a wide range of charitable, educational and community interests in Johnstown, Ohio.

​In 1995, Mary E. Babcock provided funding to purchase land to construct a new library in the Johnstown community.  Many dedicated community members, staff and volunteers worked for nearly 10 years to find an appropriate location to build a new library.
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The new Johnstown location of the Licking County Library (Mary E. Babcock Library) opened in early 2006.

Mary E. Babcock died on June 12, 1998 at her Johnstown residence at age 90.