About the library
Thomas Balch Library
Thomas Balch Library focuses on the history and genealogy of Loudoun County and Virginia. This library concentrates on military history with special emphasis on the American Civil War and ethnic heritage. This exceptional resource is owned and operated by the Town of Leesburg and the Friends of Thomas Balch Library support these programs. The Friends’ Black History Committee has grown into a leading research and outreach organization which actively advances the knowledge of African-American heritage in the region.
The Thomas Balch collections includes a wide variety of materials, such as bible records, books, broadsides, business records, deeds, wills, census and cemetery records, government records, electronic journals, genealogical notes, historic house files, magazines, maps, newspapers, oral histories, organization records, paintings, personal papers, photographs, postcards, posters, rare books, and more.
For more information, hours, and programs, visit the Thomas Balch Library website (managed by the Town of Leesburg).
Est 1922
History of the Library
The Library is named for Thomas Balch, who was born in Leesburg in 1821, the son of Judge Lewis P. Balch and Elizabeth Weaver. At age 5, he moved with his family to Frederick, Maryland, and later to Philadelphia. A noted attorney of his day, Thomas Balch was also a student of history, becoming a corresponding member of numerous historical societies. He earned his own niche in history at the close of the American Civil War when his plan for resolution of the famous “Alabama Claims” resulted in a $15 million settlement for the United States against Great Britain and earned him the title of “Father of International Arbitration.”
The sons of Thomas Balch, Edwin Swift Balch and Thomas Willing Balch, dedicated the Thomas Balch Library to their Father in 1922. They contributed $10,000 towards the construction of this public library, honoring their father’s memory by establishing it in the town where he was born. In recognition of Thomas Balch’s lifelong love of history, the library was dedicated with a special requirement—that it maintain and foster a section dedicated to local history.
Collections & Research
To access the library resources, visit the Thomas Balch Library website (managed by the Town of Leesburg).
Catalog
The Thomas Balch Library catalog is combined with Loudoun County Public Library catalogs.
Library Services
The Thomas Balch Library offers a wide variety of services to the Leesburg community.
Databases & Electronic Resources
The Thomas Balch Library offers databases and electronic resources for patrons.
Pathfinders
The Thomas Balch Library Pathfinders are designed to introduce users to a selection of the Library’s materials relating to a specific research topic.
Special Collections
The Thomas Balch Library’s special collections include a wide variety of rare and unique materials, including original manuscripts, archives, book indices, census and cemetery records, deeds and wills, historic house files, maps, and more.
Explore the Library’s Art Collection
The Thomas Balch Library features an impressive collection of artwork depicting Loudoun County’s history, including the four-panel “A Loudoun County Story” mural and commissioned portraits and sculptures honoring the library’s founding. Each piece connects visitors to the people and moments that shaped our community.
Building
The library building was designed by the noted Washington architect Waddy Wood. Wood is known for the design of the Woodrow Wilson House and Federal Triangle. The building features Georgian Revival style architecture.
In May 2001, a rededication ceremony was held to commemorate a new addition and the renovation of the Library. The Thomas Balch Advisory Commission and the Town of Leesburg chose the Bowie Gridley Architects firm of Washington, DC. A plaque at the Thomas Balch Library to Bowie Gridley reads: “Washington Chapter, The American Institute of Architects Merit Award—Outstanding Achievement in Historic Resources, Thomas Balch Library, November 9, 2002. Bowie Gridley Architects.” The certificate hangs in the foyer at the Library.
Stewardship
Thomas Balch Library Commission advises the Library director on collection development and policies, and it works with the Friends to promote and support Library programs and collections. Each year, the commission sponsors the annual “Loudoun History Awards” and the “Excellence in Historical Research” at the Loudoun County Public School Social Science Fair.