Schenectady in Schenectady County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Honorable Karen B. Johnson Schenectady County Public Library
Photographed by Steve Stoessel, November 2, 2024
1. Honorable Karen B. Johnson Schenectady County Library Marker
The Schenectady County Public Library Central Branch is named in honor of Karen B. Johnson, a distinguished public figure who has had a profound effect on the people and the affairs of the City and County of Schenectady.
Mrs. Johnson came to Schenectady in the late 1960's with her husband and immersed herself in civic life and volunteerism, joining various boards and organizations whose purpose was to improve the life of Schenectady's citizens. She was an original organizer of the Kids Art Festival and the summertime weekly Jazz on Jay concert series.
Accompanied by her two energetic young boys, Mrs. Johnson would often visit the public library, stating, "Every mother needs a place to go with their kids to take a break." She became an active member of the Friends of the Library and served as the group's President.
In 1975, Mrs. Johnson became the first woman elected to the Schenectady City Council and in 1983 became the first woman elected as Mayor of the City of Schenectady. Mrs. Johnson was elected to the Schenectady County Legislature in 2001 and became Vice-Chair of the Legislature in 2011.
As Chair of the County Legislature's Education Committee, Legislator Johnson was instrumental in advocating for the library system and focusing on literacy as one of the Library's core missions. She played
this page online
On March 12, 2019, the Schenectady County Legislature recognized Mrs. Johnson's commitment and dedication to the citizens and community of Schenectady County by designating the Central Branch as the Honorable Karen B. Johnson Schenectady County Public Library.
Erected 2019.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Women. A significant historical date for this entry is March 12, 2019.
Location. 42° 48.867′ N, 73° 56.317′ W. Marker is in Schenectady, New York, in Schenectady County. It is at the intersection of Clinton Street and Liberty Street, on the right when traveling north on Clinton Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 99 Clinton Street, Schenectady NY 12305, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Upstate New York, in the Capital District, and in the Albany Metropolitan Area. It is also in the American Northeast and in the Mid-Atlantic. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland and also one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Ellis Hospital (within shouting distance of this marker); Schenectady (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Site of Schenectady (about 300 feet away); Schenectady Police Department (about 300 feet away); a different marker also named Schenectady (about 400 feet
Photographed by Steve Stoessel, November 2, 2024
2. Honorable Karen B. Johnson Schenectady County Public Library Marker
More about this marker. The marker actually faces away from the library entrance.
Also see . . . Karen Johnson Remembered by Schenectady County Library. WAMC Public Radio website entry (Submitted on November 2, 2024, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York.)
Photographed by Steve Stoessel, November 2, 2024
3. Honorable Karen B. Johnson Schenectady County Public Library Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 14, 2025. It was originally submitted on November 2, 2024, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York. This page has been viewed 207 times since then and 28 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 2, 2024, by Steve Stoessel of Niskayuna, New York.
