HISTORY

The JPWL was established through a bequest from Florence Sidette Crofut and named in honor of the Rev. John P. Webster, pastor of First Church from 1956 – 1976.

At the library’s dedication in 1978, Rev. Webster said that he hoped the library would become a place of acceptance – “the House of the Word,” where patrons of all ages and backgrounds would find inspiration for their faith journeys.

We continue to share his vision and look forward to welcoming you!

Lee Ellenwood Transition

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Rev. Lee Ellenwood, the John P. Webster Library’s first director, has died (March 27, 1948 – February 15, 2026). Lee’s warm and open heart, his charm and curiosity, and his wonderful sense of humor established an atmosphere of welcome and acceptance for all who visited the JPWL. Thank you, Lee, for sharing your imagination, recipes, laughter, music, and knowledge with us for 25 years!  If community members want to show financial support, donate to the JPW library or the Farmington River Watershed a water source where he loved to fly fish and  brought him great peace and spiritual connection.

Located beneath the First Church Meeting House, the JPWL is the go-to place for books and media related to sermons, Sunday School, social justice issues, and so much more!

Monday-Thursday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–12 noon (watch Worship Service from here)
Closed Friday and Saturday

Phone: 860-232-3893

Email: jpwebster@whfirstchurch.org