Category: 1955-1964

1962 Bond Issue

In 1962, the bond issue to expand the library was put again proposed to voters. This time, it passed.  The library board employed Drake-O’Meara Associates as architects.

8mm Film Rentals

In 1966, the Library Board votes to begin circulating 8mm films. Rental fees set at $0.25 per film for three days, with a $0.10 per day overdue fee.

Children’s Room Outgrown

In 1959, due to space constraints, the Children’s room was moved into the auditorium space

Overdue Fine Increases

In 1963, the Library Board raised fines from $0.02 to $0.04 per day for an overdue book, with maximum fine set at $1.00.

Off Duty Police Officer Hired

In December of 1961, the library hired an off duty police officer at $2.50 an hour to work 7-9 pm to help with “maintaining discipline of young adult patrons.” Library Director Mrs. Guire describes the situation as “impossible.” At a Library Board meeting in February 1962, Mrs. Guire reports that…

1961 Bond Issue

In 1961, the library set forth another bond issue to add a new wing onto the south side of the building where a library parking lot was located. According to the proposition, the library was not asking for a tax increase. This proposition came only 6 years after the last…

Air Conditioning

In 1957, the Library Board votes to install air conditioning in the library.

Library’s First Expansion

The library’s first expansion, as a result of the passage of a 1954 bond issue, opened in mid 1955. As a result of the remodeling, the iconic fireplace and mantle are removed.

1960 Population

Population of Kirkwood, MO: 29,421.

Story Hour

Photograph of story hour led by Lynn Elbert in library auditorium. Caption: “Library assistant Lynn Elbert presents a program for children in the large auditorium of the library in the 1960s. Prior to the establishment of the Kirkwood Public Library in 1924, residents took the train to the Mercantile Library…