Category: 1940-1955
Head Librarian Resigns
In 1947, Head Librarian Eugenia Becker resigns after 20 years without a pay raise to join the newly formed St. Louis County Library. Unfortunately, the Library Board discovered that upon Mrs. Becker’s resignation, she has destroyed 20 years of library records and correspondence.
Kirk 1212
In 1945 the library was given a dedicated phone number – Kirk 1212. Prior to this, calls to the library went through the switch board at the City Hall.
Head Librarian elected to MLA
In 1943 Head Librarian, Eugenia Becker was elected President of the Missouri Library Association.
Sugar Rationing
Sugar was the first commodity to be rationed during World War II beginning in 1942 and lasting until 1947. In 1942 Kirkwood Public Library acted as a registration location for sugar rationing. During a three day period, 4,000 Kirkwood residents registered for sugar rationing permits for canning purposed. Library staff…
1950 Population
Population of Kirkwood, MO: 18,640.
Mrs. Walker Resigns
In spring of 1949, Mrs. Walker resigned from the library board after serving for 22 years.
Library Opens at 140 East Jefferson
By late 1940, construction of the library’s dedicated building was completed at the corner of Jefferson and Taylor. The new library building cost approximately $41,500 to build (including the purchase price for the lot). A working fireplace became the centerpiece on the west end and windows seating on the east…
