[2][3] The Thomas Library building is a square log structure with a hip roof that extends over a porch on two sides.

Construction of the building was funded by George C. Thomas, a Philadelphia philanthropist who was interested in the missionary work of the Episcopal Church, which had been providing limited library services to Fairbanks since 1904.

[2] The latter designation was made in recognition of a significant event in the history of Alaska.

On July 5 and 6, 1915, a delegation of Alaska Native leaders met with a committee of United States Government officials and representatives of the Alaska Territory to discuss a variety of concerns.

The meeting marked the beginning of a lengthy struggle by the natives for recognition which culminated in the passage in 1971 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, landmark legislation granting them sweeping rights and compensation.