Rulon Winward is presented his book on Idaho for winning the recent Idaho trivia contest sponsored at the Preston Carnegie Library. Librarian Cloteele Dahle presents his prize. Winward answered most of the 10 questions including who the counties of Franklin and Clark were named after, and who designed the Great Seal of the state, and others equally tough. Source for the questions was the Idaho Blue Book. Picture from the Preston Citizen, June 4, 1987, p. 8
1920s Summary: It was suggested by the editor of the newspaper that a “shower” be given for the library to collect books and other items needed. Much of the local collection was donated by individuals and businesses.
[Those using the library were the Athletic Club, both the Cub River /Worm Creek and the Riverdale/Mink Creek Canal Companies; Water Master Elections, The Golden Hour Club, and the American Legion. The Preston 6th Ward also rented the basement for $15 per month for their activities and other meetings. 6]
J. N. Larsen
Glen Tanner, secretary of the Kiwanis club, gives some 110 boy Scout merit badge handbooks to Joy Moosman, assistant librarian at the Preston Carnegie library. The Kiwanis felt the donation would be worthwhile one to make to aid the many boy scouts in the area. Mrs. Moosman said the library was very happy to receive the donations and that it was something the library needed. Preston Citizen, June 20, 1974, p. 5.
What was happening in Preston during the 1910-1920 Decade?
1930s Summary: The basement of the library houses rented offices, restrooms, and a meeting room. The meeting room was much utilized by almost every club and organization in town.
Andrew Carnegie
Beverly Mortenson, (left) president, and Mae Dutson, (right) secretary-treasurere of the Preston ladies Literary club, present assistant Preston Carnegie librarian Ilene Fuhriman a $30 check to be used to purchase new books for the library. The presentation is an annual one for the club. Preston Citizen Photo, May 10, 1979, p. 11)
What was happening in America during 1910-1920, the decade the library was built?
Photo by Preston Citizen, December 10, 1970
Whether the library committee took minutes of their meetings or not is not known. It is assumed that they did not, as it was decided in the 1940s that minutes should be kept. Either way, no minutes are on record at the Larsen-Sant Library. Information from this decade came from the Franklin County Citizen and minutes of the Preston City Council Meetings.[2]
The editor of the Franklin County Citizen was effusive in his praise of the design of the library; its outside design was beautiful according to the styles of the day. However, the roof design proved to be problematic and would continue to be so until the building’s demise.
1921 – Work was done on the roof of the library.
1922 - A fine list of 100 new books is included in a new lot received by the Carnegie Library.[3] Senator Ezra P. Monson presented the library with a three volume set of The Revised Statutes of the State of Idaho, the first set of the kind to be received. The Preston Carnegie Library is renting phonograph records to the public for 10 cents a day.[4]
1924 – The library was closed for 10 days for repairs. City meetings were held in the basement.[5]
The Indian and the Pioneer displayed in the library are bold relief plaques, early sculpture creations of Avard T. Fairbanks, famous Utah sculptor. They were modeled in bold relief in 1915 and 1916. Multiple casts were made presumably by flexible gelatin or “glue” molds. These were made just after he returned home from studying in Europe. He was just launching his career as a Utah artist and made these plaques for schools and businesses in this area. He was an historian and loved telling stories through his artwork. These plaques probably depicted
the history of Indians and early settlers living together in the Utah-Idaho area. His older brother, Vernon, operated a general merchandise store in Lewiston and did a lot of business with the people of Preston. Vernon may have been influential in getting these pieces for the
library.[7] “Not many of the plaques remain and the works are considered valuable artistically and historically.”[8]
[2] Claude Hawkes as chairman of the library board, as well as the librarians of this period, were found in the Preston City Council Minutes, Book 3, 1915-1935, page 274.
[3] The Franklin County Citizen, February, 1922 as quoted in Preston Citizen, January 21, 1982, p. 6 [4] The Franklin County Citizen, April 5, 1922, as quoted in the Preston Citizen, April 15, 1982, p. 10
[5] Preston City Council Minutes, Book 3, 1915-1935, page 340 [6] Ibid, page 309. [7] Letter to the library from Lenore Fairbanks Frodsham dated May 2, 2000, filed in the Special Projects area of the Local History Project. Frodsham spoke with her father about the plaques then sent the information to the Preston Carnegie Library.
[8] “Rare Plaques Being Restored,” quoting Elliott Fairbanks, son of Avard Fairbanks, Deseret News, Thursday, April 18, 1974, p. 14C.
RICHMOND GETS NEW CARNEGIE LIBRARY
Franklin County Citizen, February 12, 1914, p. 1
It is understood that the new Carnegie library which was given to Richmond by Mr. Andrew Carnegie after certain conditions had been complied with, is now completed. It is a beautiful $10,000 structure and is a great credit to the town and will materially help in the advancement of the enterprising community on the south.
Why should Preston be behind in this matter? The environs are ten times greater than our sister city, and the need of an excellent library is a crying need. The most that a people can be taxed for library purposes would be one mill. But with the assessed valuation of this city, a one-half of one percent tax would be more than enough to keep up such a building and with such a showing, it may be possible to get a $20,000 building in this city!
We understand that the church would be willing to give a plot of ground for the site, and all it needs is our sympathy, our energy, and a disposition to keep it up when once established with the addition of some books from time to time.
A committee of individuals has been working on the matter and the question now up to the people is how strongly do we wish a $10,000 or $20,000 library building?
The Carnegie Library Corporation has written asking the city how much it will guarantee as a yearly fund to maintain such a one if established. A plan has been suggested by the committee that the people of Preston petition the city council to make an appropriation for the maintenance the mill in the next appropriation of funds.
INCLUDED IN THE LIBRARY BOARD MINUTES OF 1946
The first step taken toward building a library in Preston was in February 1914, when a public meeting was called following Sunday church meetings at the Isis Theater, Joseph S. Geddes, President of the Oneida Stake of the LDS Church, took charge and was given assurance that the people were in favor of such a movement. He encouraged the bishops to support the movement in their respective wards, and the church donated the land for the building.
The city council guaranteed to carry out the construction and operation of the library. Application was made to the Carnegie Foundation in New York City for funding. Andrew Carnegie, steel magnate and philanthropist, gave $10,0000 toward the construction with the provisions that the building bear his name. The balance of the funds were supplied by the city council upon the request of Mr. J. N. Larsen, mayor. The library was financed by an appropriation of the city council and was governed by a library board of five members. The library was established in 1914 with the understanding that the people were to be assed one mill each year to maintain it. The building was built in 1915 and dedicated in 1917. The first librarian was Ella Stuart [also spelled Stewart].
THE LIBRARY MASS MEETING
Southeastern Advocate, February 18, 1914, p. 1
Sunday at-11 o'clock several of the citizens of Preston in connection with the parents'
class held a mass meeting in which they discussed the advisability of making a form of
application for a Carnegie Library. Several prominent citizens addressed the Assembly
which closed with an open discussion from the floor.
The sentiment was overwhelmingly in favor of securing such an institution. It will
be educational and resourceful for the habitual reader and also a help and resort for the
pool hall man who from force of circumstances is driven to the less desirable place. Petitions
are being circulated addressed to the city council for ordinance to cover the needed annual
assessment for upkeep. The theory of the Carnegie Library system is for the Carnegie people
to provide a suitable building and some books and the beneficiary is to look after the expenses
of maintenance.
LOCAL DOINGS
Franklin County Citizen, February 26, 1914, p. 8
The city council has signed the request of the library committee. It is an institution we so
much need in the city.
FACTS SUBMITTED TO CARNEGIE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
Southeast Idaho Advocate, March 11, 1914, page 1.
The population 3,500. Immediate surrounding district 5,500. The towns and hamlets
surrounding and depending upon Preston, 17. County seat of Franklin County. Has 15 miles
of cement sidewalks. Has a $7500.00 water system owned by the city. 35 new homes will be
built this spring, already contracted for. Has 40 mercantile blocks.
Four new ones building. Has two newspapers, Franklin County Citizen, and Southeastern
Advocate. Sewer system is contemplated in the spring. A $55,000.00 public school nearly
completed. The old school building, $20,000.00, inadequate, now houses 900 pupils. We are
on the Auto Trail between Salt Lake and Boise and Yellowstone Park. O.S.L. terminal on through
to Bancroft now building. Preston is outlet for Gentile Valley, a rich farming district including
towns of Bancroft, Cleveland, Lago, Grace and Thatcher. Preston and district are about the
richest farming and-agricultural district in the west. Same valley as Logan, where the Utah
Agricultural College is situated.
The $350,000.00 Oneida Irrigation District canal waters thousands of acres of rich land,
and other systems will no doubt do about the same service for the east side of the valley.
We have a High School property valued at about $75,000.00 which had an enrollment last
year of over250 pupils. The interurban railroad building from Salt Lake through Ogden, Logan,
Smithfield, Richmond, Franklin, Lewiston, Fairview to Preston is now completed to Smithfield.
The Utah Power and Light Company furnish us with heat, power and light and has a
$7,000,000.00 power plant near, which supplies Salt Lake, Ogden and other cities, including
mining camps of Park City, Bingham, Garfield, with their power and light. Our section is a
farming community where crops never fail. The dry land farms yield from 30 to 50 bushels of
wheat to the acre.
CARNEGIE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OFFERS $10,000 TO THE CITY OF PRESTON
The South-Eastern Advocate, March 25, 1914, page 1
Word has been received from the Carnegie Library Association that they will give $10,000 to the city of Preston for a Library. This will go a long way toward erecting an up-to-date Library, but the city council, commercial club and promoters are asking for still more, hoping to receive as high as $20,000. The mayor is writing an official letter, so also is the commercial club addressing one, as well as V. W. Fairbanks, who has been doing the principal corresponding.
CARNEGIE LIBRARY IS NOW ASSURED FACT
Franklin County Citizen, March 26, 1914, page 3
Word has been received that the Carnegie Institute of New York had passed, upon the application of the people of Preston for a library, and so have set aside $10,000 for the erection of the building. Negotiations however, are pending to see if the appropriation cannot be increased in view of the fact that $1,500 has been set aside for the maintenance. However, as soon as the property has been transferred, and the final touches to the negotiations have been made, work on the building will commence. In the meantime, there Is a movement on foot by various appointed committees to plat and landscape garden the square, so that it will be "a thing of beauty and a joy forever.”
World War I began in July of 1914 and continued until November of 1918.
Enoch Nelson, Clifton, enjoys one of the magazines available for reading in the big reading room.
1970s Summary – County and City Combine Resources to Maintain Library Service ( Dec. 1972, County pays 45% and city pays 55%. City owns the building. Rental offices in the basement converted into modern youth library. Glen Call does the renovation, removing the center wall sothe basement is open. Work room and restrooms take up the rest of the space. Cassette tapes purchased. Library services offered: fiction and non-fiction for adults and children, cassettes and records, weekly story hours for children, services to the blind and handicapped, reference materials, access to collections at Idaho State Library and Pocatello. Library circulation up 35% in the last two years. City and LDS church battle over water bills and ownership of library property. Hours: 2-8 daily and noon-5 on Saturdays.
Henry Ford started producing Model T Fords in 1908. The one pictured above was photographed in 1910 in Salt Lake City.
Items from the Preston Carnegie Library. The oak card catalog holder (center) was obtained second-hand from Twin Falls Library in 1983.
NOTE: The library did not start taking/saving their minutes until 1946. The current library does not have a complete set of minutes even after 1946 – several gaps exist. Therefore, the early history of the library comes from the local newspaper – The Franklin County Citizen, which was later renamed The Preston Citizen. It should also be noted that in the early years, the library was run by a stake committee from the Church of Jesus-Christ of Latter-day Saints.
EDITORIAL PAGE
Franklin County Citizen, February 25, 1915, page 4
Come you gentlemen of the free library commission, when are you going to commence operations? Oh, by the way, we take that back, because we have just been informed that notices are already out for bids. But we should get busy and push it along anyway.
NOTICE CALLING FOR BIDS
Franklin County Citizen, March 4, 1915, p. 7
Notice is hereby given that the Carnegie Library Committee, (J. N. Larsen, Chairman, Preston Idaho) also
Monson and Price, Vermont Building, Salt Lake City, Utah will receive sealed bids on the Carnegie Library
Building to be erected at Preston, Idaho. Bids will be received until March 1st at 8 p. m. The board reserves
the right to accept or reject any and all bids. A bond of 10 percent of the bid must accompany each and
every bid handed in. V. W. Fairbanks, Clerk
Editorial Page
Bid Award
Franklin County Citizen, March 11, 1915, page 2
Christensen and Gunderson were awarded the contract for the new library- Mr. Scow of Richmond was low bidder, but it seems that his bid was not considered a competent one. The building will be commenced in the very near future and Is to be completed about July 1st. We are certainly glad that these two gentlemen have received the contract for this beautiful building, because we know that it is in safe hands and that the work that will be put on the structure will bring out the best in the gentlemen named.
NEWS OF HERE AND HEREABOUT
Preparatory work, Architects and Contractors
Franklin County Citizen, April 1, 1915, p. 10
Trees have been hewn down preparatory to the excavation work for Ihe new library building on the north side of the square. The library will be a handsome structure when completed, having a large lecture room in the basement, besides boiler rooms and other compartments, while the upstairs will be used as library and reading room. The plans which have been drawn by Monson & Price, architects of Salt Lake City— have an imposing appearance The contractors are Christensen & Gundersen of this city.
NEWS OF HERE AND THERE
Steel Shipment
Franklin County Citizen, April 29, page 8
Christensen & Gundersen received a carload of steel this week for the new library building.
NEW OF HERE AND HEREABOUT
Building Progress
Franklin County Citizen, June 24, 1915, p. 10
The new library building is gradually drawing up to the square, and it begins to assume imposing proportions.
NEWS OF HERE AND THERE
Steps and Columns
Franklin County Citizen, August 19, 1915, page 8
The casting of the big concrete steps at the front of the New Library has been made, and it promises to be an excellent piece of work, the entire steps and pillars being cast out of solid block. The library building will be a credit to any town of 50,000 inhabitants.
LOCAL EVENTS OF THE WEEK
Building Almost Finished
Franklin County Citizen, September 23, 1915, p.
The Preston Library is almost finished, and it certainly is an ornament to the city. And it might be said without any equivocation that forty years hence it will be one of the city’s valuable assets.
LOCAL NEWS
Franklin County Citizen, October 14, 1915, p. 7
Contractor Joseph Monson was in Preston last Saturday inspecting the new library building which is nearing completion.
EDITORIAL PAGE
Franklin County Citizen, December 9, 1915, page 4
Andrew Carnegie has given away $350,000,000 and is rapidly approaching the poverty stage. He has but $60,000,000 left. If Andy Carnegie is pining to get rid of that remaining $60,000,000 in order to die poor, all he has to do is to trot right along to this little burg. We’ll receive him with open pockets and nary a chirp about tainted money.
DESCRIPTION OF PRESTON
Franklin County Citizen, May 25, 1916
On the public square in a handy place for the public stands a very beautiful Carnegie Library building. It is built of dark red brick and is a splendid bit of architecture. It will open for the use of the public as soon as the building is accepted by the architect.
NEWS FROM FAR AND NEAR
Franklin County Citizen, October 5, 1916, p.8
When will the new Library open? We want to recommend holding a book shower social.
ITEM
Franklin County Citizen, December 28, 1916, p. 1
We hope the public library book committee will select such a variety of reading that will satisfy the public and not follow the suggestions of any clique or organization. A public library belongs entirely to the public and should not be run in connection with similar organizations of an exclusive nature.
LOCAL BREVITIES
Franklin County Citizen, December 7, 1916
A library committee has been appointed in the city council consisting of the following gentlemen:
John Johnson, chairman; V. W. Fairbanks, A. C. Smith, H. R. Merrill, Jesse Rich, J. W. Condie, Mrs. Louis Ballif, Mrs. Junius C. Jensen, and Mrs. J. W. Olsen.
LOCAL BREVITIES
Franklin County Citizen, January 18, 1917, p. 8
Book collectors are around with their smiles and blandishments—however in a good cause—seeking to build up the insides of the new library. By the way, have you any books that you care to give to a good cause? Mrs. Floe Hale and Mr. Eugene Jensen and players will present a play in the near future for the benefit of the Carnegie Public Library. The name of the piece is “Tennessee's Partner."
LIBRARY WILL OPEN ON MARCH FIRST
Franklin County Citizen, February 15, 1917, page 1
The library committee met the other night and decided that the new Carnegie Library should be opened on the first day of March. They passed a resolution commending to the city board that a librarian be appointed at once and asked to go to Logan and Salt Lake to learn of library ways and the method of handling books. A committee was also appointed to select and buy the library furniture in order that everything might be in readiness for the opening.
The committee bought an excellent library from Dr. Bland the other day. This with what books they will be able to get from the people and will be able to purchase will make a big enough collection to begin with. Quite a number of the very best American magazines for old and young, have been ordered , and should be here sometime this week.
One of the main features of the circulation of books is what is known as the “Ten Cent Collection.” A collection of the best and latest fiction, as in other libraries, is to be arranged. This is composed of the latest and the best books of fiction and a nominal fee of ten cents is charged for the withdrawal of books in this collection. After the books have been read a number of times, they are put on the “free shelf”
and the money obtained from the reading of these books is used to buy the latest works on fiction in circulation as published.
LOCAL BREVITIES
Fund Raiser for Library
Franklin County Citizen, February 15, 1917, page 8
One of the most delightful dancing socials of the season was given by the Golden Hour Club at the Blue Villa Hall on February 5th. The husbands of the members and many friends enjoyed the jolly party. Sandwiches and coffee were served. The club’s colors of white and yellow was carried out in the luncheon service. The proceeds of the party will be used by the ladies for the benefit of the public library.
LIBRARY TO OPEN MARCH IOTH
Franklin County Citizen, March 1, 1917
At a meeting of the library committee last Tuesday night, it was decided that the Carnegie Library would be opened March 10th. It was hoped by the committee that the opening might take place earlier but owing to some work that had to be done, the formal opening could not take place until the tenth. A reception committee is hard at work arranging for the opening. It is hoped that all of the patrons of the library will be present. The hours will be from one until five in the afternoon, and from seven until nine in the evening. During those hours punch and wafers will be served free of charge. It was thought at first that a book shower would be held but the plans were changed later. The committee of men of the different wards are now expected to gather the available books and take them to the library before the opening. Mrs. Ella Stewart has been selected as librarian. She is preparing herself to take charge of the library. The very latest methods will be used.
LOCAL BREVITIES
Franklin County Citizen, March 8, 1917, p. 8
The library committee hereby acknowledges the receipt of a magnificent gift of books, consisting of a 60 volume set of “The Nations of the World," by the Preston Furniture Company. The two young men Ephraim and Brigham Bosworth comprising the firm are both magnanimous and progressive and are sure to attract favorable attention by their up-to-date methods of doing business. When asked to
contribute to the library they did not hesitate to outdo almost every other donor. They left it to the choice of the committee to take a splendid number of books, or to choose several pieces of furniture. Here is a worthy example for others to emulate. Success to the boys.
LOCAL BREVITIES
Franklin County Citizen, March 22, 1917, p. 8
Last week the name of Mrs. A. C. Smith was omitted from the names of the library committee. We are informed that she was one of the most ardent workers, and she placed her household furniture in the library building to take care of the public. Whether we are to blame for this oversight or not, we apologize to the good lady.
The library is pretty well patronized, the little ones seem to like to go there. And speaking of the little ones, books suitable for their study should be purchased. The books that are already there are a little too advanced for their youthful minds, and juvenile stories are the ones which are now so much needed in the library.
Mr. H. J. Hansen of the Hansen Jewelry Company, made the library a present of senator Henry Cabot Lodge’s “Harvard Classics.” This is a magnificent set of 56 volumes and Mr. Hansen is to be complimented for his generous donation.
LOCAL BREVITIES
Franklin County Citizen, March 29, 1917, p. 12
The library is being well used. Supplies have not yet arrived, therefore it is impossible as yet to lend the books, but the magazines are all in use. Books may be read during library hours.
[The meeting room in the basement was used on a regular basis by the Amalgamated Sugar Co, meeting about the building of the sugar factory; the Golden Hour Ladies Club, and for Red Cross work.]
F. O. HALES MAKES GIFT TO LIBRARY
Franklin County Citizen, May 10, 1917, p. 8
Mr. F. O. Hales made a splendid gift of a number of volumes of fiction to the public library. His assortment was made up of Kippling, London, and a number of miscellaneous works. Mr. Hale’s gift will be especially appreciated by the young people as the books which he presented will be popular with the reading public Related item, p. 7: [This] last week a consignment of new books from A. C. McClurg and Company was received at the Carnegie Library. Many of them are reference books and represent the best there is on their particular subjects. Several books of short stories and fiction have also been added.
YOUR PUBLIC LIBRARY
Franklin County Citizen, June 7, 1917, p. 10
The library is now open to the public, and is ready to loan books; hours from 1 p.m. to7 p.m. All books on the shelves are free and may be kept out for two weeks and if you cannot read them in that time, you may have them rechecked for two additional weeks. A fine of 5 cents a day is charged on books kept out overtime. We do not loan our dictionaries and encyclopedias. We also have twenty-five books of the latest fiction which may be read for 10c per week, until they are paid for, when they will be put on the free shelves. Following is the report for the month of May 1917:
Volumes on hand, June 1st….. 1,434
Membership, June-lst….. 306
Books loaned for month of May….. 582
Fines collected on overdue books….. $1.10
ELLA STUART, Librarian
NEW FLAG ON LIBRARY
Franklin County Citizen, August 30, 1917
A new Old Glory was seen over the Carnegie Library and on ascertaining we found that our enterprising townsman, W. R. Smith, of the City Grocery had donated the shimmering stars and bars which constituted the flag of our country. Let us all join in together and thank Mr. Smith for the kindly act.
PRESTON LIBRARY SHOWS HEALTHY CONDITION
Franklin County Citizen, July 12, p. 7
The Preston Library June report shows the condition as follows:
Vols. on hand July 1st….. 1511
Vols. added during month of June….. 77
Members registered….. 82
Books loaned month of June….. 538
Fines collected month of June….. $3.00
The following gifts were received during the month of June: Twenty-eight vols. By Dr. A.R.Cutler and family, nineteen volumes by Foss Bros., twelve vols. by Mr. Joshua Rallison and family, five vols. by Mrs. S. Tucker, three vols. by Golden Hour Club, two vols. by Mrs. Geneva Jones, one vol. each by Irene Patterson, Leo Peterborg, Dencil Peterborg, Mrs. Arba Lane and one vol. in Preston Public Library. One of the splendid gifts to our library during the month of June was Webster's New International Dictionary, on a neat stand. It has over 2,600 pages and is fully illustrated-- something useful as well as ornamental and was the gift of The Golden Hour Club.
LIBRARY REPORT
Franklin County Citizen, September 20, 1917, p. 3
The following is the report of the Carnegie Library for the month of August:
Volumes on hand, Sept. 1st. ... 1528
Volumes added during Aug….. 17
Members registered … 49
Books loaned ..... 451
Fines Collected ….. $2.65
Books donated ….. 5
“Pearls From Many Lands," donated by Mrs. T. Shuttleworth; "Abner Daniel," "The Battle Ship”, “Boys First Step Up," "The Boy Allies in the Trenches," "Our Young Aeroplane Scouts in Turkey," donated by Glen E. Beckstead; 12 volumes of “Luther Burbank, His Methods and Discoveries.”
ELLA STUART, Librarian
LIBRARY REPORT
Franklin County Citizen, October 4, 1917 p. 1
The following is the report of the general library for the month of September up to October 1st.
Volumes on hand, October 1st,….. 1,579
Volumes added in September….. 51
Members registered ….. 37
Books loaned….. 351
Fines collected ….. $1.90
New books donated:
10 volumes, "Seeing Europe With Famous Authors,” Geo. E. Crockett; "With Lee in Virginia", Emma
Crockett; "The Sun Trail," H. R. Morrill; "Teachers Bible," James E. Johnson. Other new books:
20 volumes “Worlds Great Masterpieces," besides 17 books of new fiction.
ELLA STUART, Librarian
In 1917 the old library committee was released and a new committee called.[1]
During 1917-18 the library meeting rooms were used by the Amalgamated Sugar Co, for meetings concerning the building of the sugar factory; the Golden Hour Ladies Club and for Red Cross work.
NEWS AROUND TOWN AND COUNTY
Franklin County Citizen, March 21, 1918, page 8
The furniture for the Preston Athletic Club will be placed in the elegant quarters sometime this week. The club room is situated in the basement of the Carnegie Library. Also a nationwide book drive is being conducted to find books for the soldiers. Books can be donated to the Carnegie Library.
LIBRARY REPORT
Franklin County Citizen, May 9, 1918, p. 1
The following is the report of the Carnegie Library for the months of February, March and April:
Volumes on hand, May 1….. 1690
Volumes added since February 1….. 53
Members registered since Feb. 1….. 107
Books donated since Feb….. 19
Books loaned since Feb 1….. 2249
Fines collected….. $12.95
ELLA STUART, Librarian
BIDS WANTED
Franklin County Citizen, September 2, 1918, p. 17
Sealed bids for cement work to be completed at the Carnegie Library, Preston, Idaho, will be received up until Monday, September 23, at 2: o’clock, p.m. Plans of work maybe received from the mayor.
Mr. Nephi Larsen, Mayor
A SPLENDID GIFT TO THE LIBRARY
Franklin County Citizen, September 19, 1918, page 5
Gift from N. G. Peterson, jeweler Mr. N. G. Peterson, the wide awake and popular jeweler of Preston,
has recently presented the Carnegie Library with a beautiful large regulator clock. It is a magnificent
piece of time mechanism and Mr. Peterson deserves credit and praise for his liberal contribution, and in
behalf of the Preston public, the Library Committee extends their sincere thanks and wish the jeweler a
prosperous and happy business career. THE LIBRARY COMMITTEE
ANDREW CARNEGIE
Franklin County Citizen, October 30, 1918, page 4
Recently there passed from this sphere of action—a whole-souled sympathetic gentleman.
That man was Andrew Carnegie, steel king, philanthropist, and education savior of many who could
not have secured an education in any other way than the one he sponsored. Through his vast system
of public libraries, many a man and woman, many a boy and girl, has received educational enlightenment.
Carnegie saw the needs of the people. He wanted to help them. He sensed the ignorance of many
civic boards who thought all a man or woman needed was “jest readin’ writin’ and ‘rithmetic.”
As a result of his philanthropy, Preston received one of these monuments of Carnegie’s generosity.
Without a lot of red tape, humming or hawing, he donated to this city the magnificent monument in brick
and stone that will ever keep his name in the hearts of the people.
It is the right kind of avenue of advancement that the average individual will assuredly take advantage
of. Filled with good books it is a source of perpetual enjoyment to the young; education to the middle aged,
and pleasure to the old.
Were all men of the same mind as Andrew Carnegie, the world would be a better place to live in.
The people of Preston, when they view the beautiful symmetry of the building, it's ideal
location—surrounded by green swards, shrubbery and fountains— it will be to revere the name of the founder and boast of his fatherly kindness and extensive generosities.
A PLAN FOR INTERESTING CHILDREN IN READING
Franklin County Citizen, December 11, 1918, page 9
At a recent meeting of the library committee, it was decided to inaugurate a Saturday afternoon story telling hour for the children of Preston. Mr. Harrison Merrill visited the department of the Salt Lake Library that has been following the plan, and Mrs. Curtis Bland visited the same department of the Logan Library, where each received enthusiastic promises of support in the direction of interest and suggestion.
The plan is for a storytelling lady to entertain children, from the ages of 4 years to 12 and older, at the library. If the plan meets with success, it may be followed in the summer vacation also, and on other days than Saturdays. A kindergarten play hour would be a happy summer arrangement in this connection.
The story hour will be at 2 o’clock on Saturday afternoons closing promptly at 3:00 so that the children who wish may go to the movies. Our first story hour will be Saturday, January 24th. All children are welcome.
THE STORY TELLING LADY
[During 1918, the meeting room in the Carnegie Library was used by the Mother’s Association, the Commercial Club, the Sugar Beet Committee, the Chatauqua Club, the Preston Athletic Club, and the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines.]
BOOKS STILL WANTED FOR THE SOLDIERS
Franklin County Citizen, January 16, 1919, page 1
The following word has been received from the state librarian: “We received a wire a short time ago from Washington urging us to collect more books of fiction for the soldiers AT ONCE. There is pressing need for books of fiction for our soldiers in the hospitals.”
Anyone wishing to give books should bring them in to the Preston Carnegie Library before January 22, 1919.
The authors which seem to be most popular are: Jack London, McCutcheon, Marold Bell Wright, Boothe Tarkington, Mark Twain, Poe, Kipling, Chambers, Conan Doyle.
ELLA STUART, Librarian
LOCAL NEWS
Franklin County Citizen, June 12, 1919, page 8
It is said that the lawn in front of the Carnegie Library is certainly beginning to look green under the expert hands of Watermaster Hawkes.
[Organizations using the library meeting room in 1919 were the newly formed American Legion Post, the War Mothers, the Chautauqua Association, the Athletic Club and the Commercial Club.]
[1] Preston City Council Minutes, Book 3, 1915-1935
Maynard Rasmussen, Preston, looks over the books in the “shortened” stacks at the Preston library while preparing an assignment for a class at USU.
We have the best climate in the inter-mountain region, the winters are not too cold and the summers are the most glorious feature of this God-inspired spot, the nights being cool and invigorating. The people living in this section are imbued with the beauties of the new Yellowstone highway, the only true highway which has been logged by way of Franklin, Preston and Dayton, and which is to be designated by a Yellowstone set in the ground at short distances along the route; side routes designated by signs or otherwise are optional routes and are financed and advertised "by people living along the routes.”
In conclusion we want to bid people welcome to our borders. You will find here the highest kind of hospitality. The latch
string is dangling on the outside, and the people are working for the up building of this great community.
Juveniles trashed the library door and entrance with a fire extinguisher, removing glass; throwing paper, books and loose articles around with a break=in recently in the Clifton Elementary school. The same group also broke into the Clifton Market, taking merchandise. However, footprints in the snow led to apprehension by the franklin county sheriff’s dept. John Sant Photo
Budget
During the decade, the yearly budget remained at about $3,000. It was allotted to $1350 for salaries, $750 for books, $120 for periodicals, $290 for heat and lights, $15 for Insurance and $319 for miscellaneous.
Inventory
The statistical report of 1945 shows the building being owned by the city and the county donating $600 for books as their share of the cost. The rate of tax levy was 2 mills. The library owned 19,000 books with a two-week lending period. In 1946 the following statistics were reported:
Adult non-fiction 3, 342
Fiction 10,546
Children 5,040
Period of loan – 14 days
Number of reference questions answered – several hundred.
Total number of registered borrowers Adult Juvenile 4,804
Borrowers registered during the year Adult Juvenile 492
Non-Resident borrowers Very few
Charge resident borrowers One half of book and given back on return of book.
Book Stock
No. of volumes at beginning of year Adult Juvenile 9142
No. of volumes added during year Adult Juvenile 678
Budget: $3,000 from tax levy at 2 mills
Expenditures
Salaries 1346.28
Books 750.94
Periodicals 119.46
Heat, Light, etc. 288.98
Insurance 14.65
Other 318.54
TOTAL 2760.92 BALANCE ON HAND $135.37[11]
Board Meetings
In 1941, the Library Board agreed on the following library rules, which were then printed in the newspaper.
Librarian Helen Beckstead of the Preston Carnegie Library has listed for readers these rules for the use of the public library:
1. Free library cards will be issued to all Preston City tax payers upon the signing of application cards.
2. City residents who are not taxpayers of real property within the city limits are required to have their application card signed by someone who is a taxpayer within the city.
3. People residing in the city for a short period—six months or less and desiring the use of the library are required to have a taxpayer sign their application. This taxpayer becomes responsible for all books checked out by the above applicant. In lieu of this, applicant may pay a deposit equal to the value of the books checked out, the deposit to be returned upon the return of the books.
4. County users of the library must pay $2.00 for a family card; thus, enabling every member of the family to have a library card.
5. Free library cards will be issued to all High School students desiring the use of the public library. The application card of the student must be signed by someone who is a taxpayer of real property within the city. The taxpayer then becomes responsible for all books checked out by the student.
6. After the student graduates, the above regulation becomes void.
7. Books may not be checked out when the borrower’s card is already out with other books.
8. Books may not be checked out on another person’s card.
9. No more than 4 books may be checked out on a card at one time.
10. When a book or books is held until overdue by any individual the use of the library will be prohibited to all other members of his family until the book is returned.
11. Overdue fines are accumulated at the rate of 2 cents per day.
12. Long overdue books at the rate of 50 cents per month.[12]
In February of 1943 it was decided to open the library to the reading public of the entire county. This action was a result of a decision by the County Commissioners to donate $50 to the budget. This decision, according to Mrs. Oretta Carlson, librarian, made it possible for county residents to check out books from the library under the same regulations as the Preston City patrons.
Library hours were from noon to 9:00 p.m. daily except Sundays and holidays. The reading room was a very popular place to go.
The magazine list included: American Girl, American Magazine, Atlantic Monthly, Aviation, Better Homes and Gardens, Boy’s Life, Child Life, Children’s Activities, Collier’s, Congressional Records, Consumer’s Research Bulletin, Cosmopolitan, Fortune, Good Housekeeping, Harper’s Hygeia, Ladies’ Home Journal, Life, McCall’s, Mademoiselle, National Geographic, Open Road, Parents, Popular Mechanics, Popular Science, Radio News, Reader’s Digest, Saturday Evening Post, Scholastic, Science Digest, Story Parade, Time, Vital Speeches, and Women’s Home Companion.
LDS church periodicals included Improvement Era, Relief Society Magazine, and Children’s Friend. Other periodicals by organization included: Elks, Rotarian, National Parent Teacher. And the daily newspapers: Deseret News, Herald Journal and the Preston Citizen.
In 1944, the library requested the return of long overdue books. No charge would be made if these books were returned by a certain date. After that date the regular 2 cents a day would be charged again.[13]
A large number of plays used in past years were made available to the local wards by the General MIA Board through the local library. “Two groups of the plays outlined for this year’s Mutual dramatic program are also on hand for use this winter. The facilities of the library are open to all members of the county as well as residents of Preston.” [14]
A new flag was donated in 1945 by W. R. Smith of the City Grocery. [15]
The first mention of Martha Geddes as librarian was made in 1946, which is also when the minutes of board meetings began. The closing of the library for renovations and cleaning was in late August and early September. This was when the librarian was instructed to take her vacation.[16]
The first minutes of the Library Board on record are dated January 10, 1946.
Discussion items included the need for both a new roof and a new typewriter. A magazine rack was also discussed. Further board meetings during the year included a report that the city would fix the roof so that it would drain to the south. This would be done in the summer. The library was closed during August for cleaning and repairs, including painting and kemotoning.
An inventory of books showed the following:
Discarded Scientific books, etc. 185
Placed in basement 100
Pulled books beyond repair 100
Lost books from shelves 40
Books pulled for repairs 70
Lost books from files 22
200 others should have been pulled because of lost pages, torn parts, etc. but were left in circulation because they were still in demand.
Library Board meetings in 1947 reported that the Preston Lions Club was to install new lighting in the library to assist in sight conservation. The Lion’s Club would contribute $900 if the city would take care of the wiring. The city contributed $150 for wiring and insulation. The new lighting made the paint show up to disadvantage. It was discussed how to get it painted without taking money from the budget, service clubs or parent-teacher organization.
All files and records were re-checked. Everything was left in proper order for the first time since the founding of the library.
Inventory:
Discarded books 75
Lost from shelves 28
Lost from files 20
Changed from adult to Jr. 5
Board meetings were held four times a year. The magazine list was constantly being reconsidered. [17]
At the June County commissioner’s Meeting, Earl Goaslind from the Preston City Council suggested “that if it’s possible for the County to do so that they participate in the maintenance and operation of the library. Upon the basis that the facilities of the Library are used by the residents of the entire county as well as the residents of Preston City, Mr. Goaslind was assured that investigations would be made, and a decision made.”[18]
In 1948 the county’s central equalization board was asked for more money as the library had been opened to all county schools.
Mr. Forsgren said, “he didn’t approve of long meetings, and ones which were called too frequently.”[19]
At the end of the decade, the following budget numbers were reported.
Budget:
Librarian Salary 1320
Assistants 480
Rebinding books 50
Heat and Lights 390
Building upkeep 150
New Equipment 100
Periodicals 160
Books 650
A book rack was to be made for the Jr. non-fiction. The Davis County-wide plan of distribution of books was explained. The possibility of combining school and city funds was discussed. There was a discussion about loaning books to teachers. Some magazines that were ordered failed to arrive. The city cleaned the building well, but the janitor failed to do his part, so the library opening was delayed four days. Inventory completed with 80 books discarded, 18 books lost from files, and 10 books lost from shelves. [20]
At the Library’s 100th Birthday Party, Elva Atkinson shared this memory from her childhood:
Reading began for me in 1942 in the first grade in the Fairview elementary school. I had a wonderful first grade teacher who knew the value of reading. At the beginning of the year, she challenged us to read as much as we could. She promised a prize at the end of the school year for the student who read the most pages.
Well, I read everything I could get my hands on in the class library and then at the Preston Carnegie library (once I learned to read). At the end of the year, I won the prize which I still have and cherish. It was a photo album and a dainty handkerchief with tiny flowers printed on it. The hanky wore out a long time ago, but the photo album is filled with school photos. I refer to it very often.
My parents kindly took me to the Preston library to check out books that were different from the ones in the school library. I read everything that was in the youth section. My mother was very kind and allowed me time to read all I wanted after I had done my household chores or finished the day’s work in the fields. I still remember Martha Geddes, the librarian who was so very kind to me during those early years.
[11] Library Board Minutes, December, 1946 [12] Franklin County Citizen, January 9, 1941, page 3 [13] The Preston Citizen, May 25, 1944, page 1
[14] The Preston Citizen, November 2, 1944, page 12 [15] The Preston Citizen, August 3, 1946, page 1 [16] The Preston Citizen, August 1, 1946, page 1
[17] Library Board Mintues, 1947 [18] The Preston Citizen, June 24, 1948, p. 14[ 19] Library Board Minutes, 1948 [20] Library Board Minutes, 1949
Many words of thanks and thoughts of appreciation were given those past Preston Library Board members and librarians at the 70th anniversary open house held Wednesday of last week. Connie Maughan, long-time Preston City board member, presents a flower to Ellen Greaves for her many years of service. Just to right are Ileene Fuhriman, retired library worker and Ada Hansen, former librarian, who were also honored. Some 50-60 attended the event, viewed scrapbooks, enjoyed refreshments, and reminisced about the library’s first 70 years. Preston Citizen photo, April 16, 1987, p.2
Women were struggling to gain the vote but would not succeed until 1920 when the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified.
Gift from N. G. Peterson,
jeweler
Preston, 1916, joint Scout and Beehive Day parade. Corner of State and Oneida looking north.
Preston Carnegie Library circa 1940s. Picture provided by Malcom Denton.
According to an article in the June 22, 1916 Franklin County Citizen:
Preston is the heart of Franklin County. It is a city of homes built up by
progressive people. The population is about 3,300. Property values amount
to almost $400,000; post office receipts amount to S7.000 per year.
It has a fine educational system: the Oneida Academy, a college built up
and controlled by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, has two
main working buildings, besides a new gymnasium [the Nelson Gym], the
finest in Idaho, which cost $36,000; it has a campus of eleven acres, all
situated five blocks from the center of the city. It has an independent
school district with two fine schools, [Central School and Jefferson
Middle School] one recently built at a cost of $75,000.
It has two banks, two drug stores, two livery stables, three meat markets,
two moving picture shows, at which some of the best films are seen, a Carnegie library valued at $10,000; a splendid opera house that will seat fifteen hundred, five up-to-date garages, two hotels, and in all about fifty stores.
It has a water system which cost $75,000, the water being taken from Birch Springs, a distance of fifteen miles through pipes from the heart of the northeastern mountains —so that there is no element of contagion that can enter into the purity of the system. Electricity is furnished by the Utah Power & Light Company. This is the terminus of two railroads--the Oregon Short Line and the Ogden, Logan and Idaho Railway, from which great improvements can be expected in the near future. This is the place "Where the Cars Stop."
The climate is healthful and sunny, with very few cold days during the winter. It has several rural delivery routes. And today it is building its roads with an eye to future travel.
For years it was thought impossible to build roads with the material at hand, the soil being of sand and clay, forming a fine loam. In several spots sand hills have been encountered, which caused consider- able difficulty. Today this has been obviated by modern road building facilities, and now we have also discovered numerous mountains of shale, sufficient to cover all of our roads to a depth of five feet in thickness.
Mrs. Ada Hansen, librarian, arranges books back on the shelves after a small remodeling project in the children’s section of the Preston Carnegie library. Contractor Gene Larson installed paneling behind the book shelves to take care of a water problem that had peeled paint previously. The Preston Citizen, March 28, 1974, p. 5
1960s Summary: Book mobile service started; children’s section moved downstairs; renovation funding and work done by 11 service and book clubs, library personnel, and trustees, using no operating funds. Chairs were donated by individuals and local businesses. County residents pay $5.00 per year, or 50c per book rental to use library services. Library services include books, pamphlets, magazines, maps, music scores, films, recordings and microfilms.
1940s Summary: Fines 2c a day; long overdue fines paid 1/3 the cost of the book. 18,928 books, 14 days loan period, 2 mills rate of tax levy, operating budget, $3,000 with $1,346 in salaries. Library hours were noon to 9:00. The building was owned by the city; county donates $600 for books as their share of cost.
1950s Summary: Budget $3,800
- Socialism and Communism were rooted in The Bolshevik Revolution in Russia in 1917.
- The Titanic sank in 1912, and the Panama Canal was finished in 1914.
- From 1918 through 1920, the Spanish flu killed 20 to 100 million people worldwide.
- Major inventions and scientific breakthroughs included the British World War I Mark V tank, the first modern zipper, stainless steel, the first pop-up bread toaster, and Albert Einstein developed the theory of general relativity.
- Radio programming become popular; the temperance movement gained momentum; the first U.S. feature film, Oliver Twist, was released in 1912; Hollywood replaced the East Coast as the center of the movie industry; Charlie Chaplin débuted his trademark mustached, baggy-pants 'Little Tramp' character in 1914; Warner Brothers opened their first West Coast studio in 1918; the first crossword puzzle was issued; and the first Jazz music was recorded.
- Jim Thorpe was the American star of the 1912 Olympics and the 1916 Olympics were cancelled because of World War I.
- Popular books were Sons and Lovers by D. H. Lawrence, Of Human Bondage by Somerset Maughan, Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Wild Fire by Zane Gray, Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw, and Willa Cather published Alexander's Bridge, O Pioneers!, The Song of the Lark, and My Antonia.
- Influential artists were Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Henri Matisse, and Marcel Ducham.
- Baseball was king with such stars as Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, Walter Johnson, Ty Cobb and Tris Speaker. The top boxers were Jack Dempsey and Jess Willard.
1835-1919
Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-American industrialist who led the enormous expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century. He built a leadership role as a philanthropist for America and the British Empire. During the last 18 years of his life, he gave away to charities, foundations, and universities about $350 million (in 2015, $13.7 billion) – almost 90 percent of his fortune. His 1889 article proclaiming "The Gospel of Wealth" called on the rich to use their wealth to improve society, and it stimulated a wave of philanthropy.
Carnegie was born in Dunfermline, Scotland, and immigrated to the United States with his very poor parents in 1848. Carnegie started work as a telegrapher and by the 1860s had investments in railroads, railroad sleeping cars, bridges and oil derricks. He accumulated further wealth as a bond salesman raising money for American enterprise in Europe. He built Pittsburgh's Carnegie Steel Company, which he sold to J.P. Morgan in 1901 for $480 million (in 2011, $309 billion), creating the U.S. Steel Corporation. Carnegie devoted the remainder of his life to large-scale philanthropy, with special emphasis on local libraries, world peace, education and scientific research.
LIBRARY PURCHASES MANY BOOKS DURING BOOK WEEK
Franklin County Citizen, November 25, 1931, page 1
Miss Minnie Bain, librarian of the Preston Carnegie Library, reports that during the Children’s Book Week, November 15 to 21, that that institution purchased and added a number of new books to its already large assortment of reading material. The young folks are invited to come to the library between 1 and 6 in the afternoon and 7 to 9 in the evening to look over the new arrivals. Some of the titles are “Birthday Party”, “Child’s Garden”, and “Tiny Town.”
Miss Bain reports that an average of 100 books are loaned by the library each day. This figure does not take into consideration the number of books and magazines read each day during the library hours.
FINE ARTS CLUB DONATES BOOKS
Franklin County Citizen, December 19, 1934, page 4
The following illustrated books for children have been donated to the Preston Carnegie Library by the Fine Arts Club: Maude and Miska Petersham series; Book of Transportation; Story Book of Clothes; Story Book of Food; Story Book of Houses.
King Bird Series I, II and III; Taxy Squirrel and the Garden; Lorraine and the Letter People; Little Black Sambo; Twilight Tales, The Pied Piper; Pussy Cat, Doings of Little Bear, Little Brown Bruno; A Child’s Garden of Verses, Peter Rabbit, The Three Little Pigs, The Little King, Peter Pan, Bible Stories, Puss and Boots, Book of Fairy Tales.
The Boys and Girls Newspaper will also appear weekly beginning January 11th. This is America’s first real newspaper for boys and girls from 7 to 17. It’s published by an organization closely affiliated with the Parents Magazine. Their resources, experience, organization and close association with all leaders in the field of child education, training, and entertainment qualify them to make The Boys and Girls Newspaper everything it should be.
ENGLISH CLASSES WILL HAVE LIBRARY MEETING
Franklin County Citizen, September 22, 1937, p. 6
All students in English III classes will have the opportunity of becoming better acquainted with fiction when they visit the Preston Carnegie Library during their class period on September 9.
Mrs. Helen Beckstead will report on the best fiction available in the city library. The project started last year and proved successful and will continue during the present year.
BOOK REVIEW SET AT LOCAL LIBRARY
Franklin County Citizen, March 15, 1939, page 1
It was announced there this week that a book review will be held Monday at 7 p.m. in the Preston Carnegie Library. Miss Dorothy Wakely, a Preston high school teacher, will review Edna St. Vincent Milay’s “Conversation at Midnight.” The public is invited to attend this interesting book night.
BOOK REVIEW SET
Franklin County Citizen, March 29, 1939 page 1
A large attendance is expected at the Monday evening book review at the Preston Carnegie Library when Mrs. Vanna McClelan will review Beth Streeter Aldrich’s “A Song of Years.”
[The northwest room of the library basement was used for detention of children who failed to observe curfew. [9] Basement offices were also used by the City Health Officer for an office and lab; and also as offices for the City Treasurer and City Clerk.[10]
In 2015 at the 100th birthday party for the library, submissions were made about memories of the library. This one is included as a memory of a first library visit in 1932, written by Margaret Kerr Lundsford.
IMMATURE IMPRESSIONS OF A SIX-YEAR-OLD ON A FIRST LIBRARY VISIT
My mother and I were actually climbing the steps to the public library in Preston! As I looked up at the door, it seemed a mile high! I was so excited! This was happening on the second Saturday in October 1932. I had just entered the first grade. Our teacher had told us that the library had hundreds of books and we could “check out” a book and take it home for two whole weeks. For days I had been begging to see a real library.
Today after lunch, Mama said, “Margaret, go put on your Sunday dress and shoes. I have a surprise for you. Daddy will take care of the younger kids while we go someplace by ourselves.”
Now here we were almost at the front door of the library! Mama opened the door; it squeaked a little, then she gently pushed me inside. My heart was beating so fast I could hardly breathe. In front of us was a large piece of furniture and behind it stood a pretty lady. She was wearing a pink dress. She was smiling at us. I smiled back.
I could see chairs and tables all over the place. Maybe they served meals in this room. I had already eaten so I didn’t care about food. I was in the library to “check out” a book.
All around the outside walls were shelves filled with books. We had books and magazines at home—but nothing like this. I had never seen so many books in my whole life. No wonder they had to build this big room to store them. No wonder they wanted people to “check out” a book—they needed more space.
I could see a tall ladder leaning against one wall of shelves. It didn’t take me long to figure why that ladder was there. If someone couldn’t reach a certain book, he would just climb the ladder and get the right one. I could do that.
Right then I knew which book I wanted—it was that yellow one on the very top shelf where the ladder was. I was ready to go for it. I may be a little country girl, but I am the best ladder climber around even if I am wearing my Sunday dress. I was ready to give it a try.
Just then I glanced at the pretty lady. She was still smiling. She looked as if she were going to say something when Mama pulled me toward the door. “Shh, let’s go.”
“But Mama, aren’t we going to check out a book like the teacher told us?” I questioned, with sheer panic in my voice.
“Not today; let’s go. You have seen a library,” she whispered.
We were standing outside of the door. I thought about it. I had seen a real library for the first time. I was so happy! Could anything be more exciting?
A big lump came into my throat. I couldn’t swallow it away. “Thank you, Mama, thank you,” I said. Tears filled my eyes. Two big teardrops went SPLAT, SPLAT on the front of my Sunday dress.
Until today, no one knew how disappointed I was on that Saturday in October 1932.
I didn’t climb that ladder to get the yellow book. We didn’t check out a book. We didn’t talk to that pretty lady in the pink dress.
[9] Preston City Council Minutes, Book 3, 1915-1935.[ [10] Ibid, Book 4-1935-1938.
Beverly and Bonnie Norton, twin daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Max Norton, enjoy one of the books in the Youth Library. Pictures from April 18, 1963 Preston Citizen.
Book Reviews
For a short time, the Friends of the Library sponsored book reviews which were broadcast over the local radio station KPST. Reviewers and the book reviewed as listed in the newspaper were Marilyn Hull, Advise and Consent by Allen Drury, Marilyn Nash Hull, The Spinster by Sylvia Ashton Warner; and Virginia Burton, Nautilus 90 North by Commander William R. Anderson with Clay Blair, Jr.
1961 - Martha Geddes explained the teenager’s book reviews: “Mrs. Margaret Edwards was assigned the task of evaluating teen book reviewers by the American Book Publishers Council. It seemed a rather hopeless task until she remembered that Enoch Pratt’s library had decided to publish “You’re the Critic”. All of the reviews were to be written by teenagers for teenagers and teens will not read book reviews that are written for adults by adults, and newspapers cannot be expected to provide such reviews. The editorial staff for the Critic is composed of one student of each of the Baltimore High Schools. The reviews are written and collected by teenagers. Mrs. Edwards reported, “Our local experience has suggested that there may be an idea here for a book column by and for teenagers in adult reviewing media.” Adults would read such reviews because they like to see what is going on in the minds of these puzzling younger people. Teenagers will read them because they are interested in teenage opinion and in this way will be led to read adult reviews for the purpose of comparison.
“The 1960 Ten Best adult books selected by teenagers were: The Leopard, by de Lampedusa; Dooley books; Times Three by McGinley, Born Free by Adamson; The Lovely Ambition by Chase, Exodus, by Uris; Journey into Summer by Teale; Ben Hur by Wallace; and The Diary of Ann Frank.”
“From the Boston Public Library comes these results of an election in which 2,220 readers age 14 to 21 named the books they wish all their friends would read.: Exodus, Ben Hur, Gone with the Wind, The Diary of Anne Frank, and Jane Eyre.
“The books I enjoyed but older people might not: Seventeenth Summer, Double Date, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, Fifteen, and Twixt Twelve and Twenty.
“Books I’m sorry I read: Peyton Place and books of this type. “
Budget
1961
Librarian 2160.00
Janitor 1164.00
Student Help 720.00
Lights and head 900.00
Telephone 129.00
Building Up-Keep 300.00
Supplies 300.00
Books 1000.00
Periodicals 375.00[34]
1963 Tax Receipts $6,000
Estimated fees, county patrons, fines, gifts and rentals $1,700 for a total of $7,700 income
Expenses:
Librarian’s Salary $2,460
Assistants’ Salaries 800
Telephone, lights and heat 640
Operating supplies and expenses 950
Periodicals 350
Building Maintenance $1,000
Books $1,500
Total $7,700
Merlin Lewis, janitor terminated as of January 15, 1963. The City Council offered to furnish a parks employee with compensation for service to come from general fund during the winter months. The Rayona Club donated $8.00, and Alene Aller donated $1.25.
1969
10,007.04 budget assuming some of the cost of construction project [35]
Library Board Meetings
1961
The board discussed the basement remodeling project, the relationship of the library board to the city council, and J. Neff Boothe was voted temporary secretary-treasurer. Present were board members plus Harold Pinson, city councilman; Marian Ballif, county representative and state library board representative; and Henry Drennan, State Librarian.
Mr. Pinson consented to analyze the ground floor of the library to see what could be done to construct a children’s room and a community room. Mr. Weber consented to finish his plan of the upper floor of the library. Mr. Drennan was to receive a copy. The community room was to take care of meetings of groups such as Friends of the Library. Folding doors could divide the space from the Children’s Reading Room. Mrs. Ballif was to form a Friends of the Library group consisting of both county and city people. Mr. Drennan stated this tentative plan: Move all children’s books downstairs and renovate the downstairs for this purpose. Construct a work room upstairs and make repairs. Mr. Drennan suggested an L-shaped room. Construct or repair restrooms downstairs. Alterations to be paid for by state funds, $24,000 to $25,000 including $1800 for lost rent. Mr. Drennan suggested getting local people involved in contributing labor, funds and services for library improvement. Harold Pinson was to consult with the city attorney on drawing up a contract involving the transfer of the library from the city to the county. Mr. Drennan asked for investigation of a retired school bus for use as a bookmobile. Bookmobile would return to the state in case of election failure. Oneida County might be included in the use of the bookmobile.
Mr. Drennan met the previous day with representatives of church officials, PTA, and citizens to look at a trial run of the state bookmobile. He covered the following points about changes being made:
1.The reason for remodeling the present library building is because of its age and for greater service.
2. Library use is 40% by city patrons, and 60% by county residents.
3. The financial backing is almost entirely supplied by the city.
4. The bookmobile traveling library program as it is used in the state of Idaho at present.
5. The state and federal government program to advance funds for a trial operation of the bookmobile, the remodeling of the building, and possible film service.
Mr. Drennen reported that the reaction of this group was very favorable toward the program with only one member present objecting to the use of federal funds for it. He informed us that a library should provide at least two books per person and allow a replacement of one book per person per year, making 800 books per year or approximately a cost of $2400. Chairman Greaves appointed members Condie and Boothe to get the Friends of the Library organized in town so that they would be ready to help on the program. Mr. Drennen said he would send Mrs. Rachel Tenski of the state library board to give assistance in the organization of the children’s library.[36]
Friends of Library group made up of people from town clubs: Literary Club, Lavinia Cutler; Fine Arts Club, Roma Hawkes; Pickwick, Donna Webb; Study Club, Mattie Sharp; Art Lore, Muriel Johnson; Study Group, Belva Hart; AAU, Susie Buxton; Jaycees, Dorothy Johnson; American Legion Auxiliary,
Helen Palmer; Lady Elks, Claire Auger; Farm Bureau, Norene Bingham and Elsie Bastian. Paul Woodward as representative from Franklin.
Discussion on heating underneath the front steps, termite problem in the basement, and book selection committee to work with Martha Gedees.
City employees to receive a $25 per month raise. Vote to do the same for librarian.[37]
Henry Drennen in attendance. Discussion of county library district. Bookmobile would likely be available from Latah county as they needed a larger bus. Marion Ballif replaced by Elsie Bastian as county library chairman. Mrs. Bastian arranged for Mr. Drennen to speak to bishops, stake presidencies and several citizens about bookmobile service. Mr. Hendricks moved that a plumber estimate the expense of remodeling the toilet facilities. Estimates needed on floor coverings.[38]
LIBRARY CHIT-CHAT
The Preston C0tizen, November 16, 1961
How about your public library? How much is enough? Does your library have enough books and other useful materials? Is your library well-housed? Is it well staffed? Is your library part of a library system? These are only a few questions you might ask yourself about your library. Our answer to all of these questions, if we were perfectly truthful, would be “No”.
First, a library is built for service to the people in a designated section. It should be a vital part of our community. It should have everything people need for information, research and recreation—such as plenty of books, pamphlets, magazines, maps, music scores, films, recordings and microfilms. In other words, it should be an open door to knowledge and a fuller life, whether people live in the city or county.
But few communities by themselves can provide all that’s needed. So the new American Library Association’s Guide To Public Library Service keynotes the idea that every public library should be part of a coordinated system of libraries. This means simply that community libraries in a natural area should band together with a central library form or system of libraries but with each community retaining local control. This plan calls for a state program to guide and reinforce these systems.
We need to be a part of this system but many in our community refused to help us. They said it was national welfare and they wanted no part of it. Yet our school building, post office, hospital, county building, 4-H club work, our new roads, etc., have all been made possible by accepting and working in federal systems of activity. Even the library building was built by using Mr. Carnegie’s library endowment funds.
The city has tried for many years to give to the whole county community library service. It has now reached the point that the city can no longer carry the burden nor meet the financial needs of the library. In any free society each person must assume part of everything he gets free. The city has taxed its people to the very limit of the law. The law states that a city can tax its people up to 3 mills. Even now this has not been enough to cover the total expenses. The library staff is the lowest paid in the state. The building is rather old and requires much more for upkeep.
Mr. Campbell tried very hard to consolidate the county both in the schools and the library. Unless the people want a county library the city will be forced to charge a yearly fee of from three to five dollars per capita per year. This would amount to much more pre family than one mill levy. The real tragedy would come when we would be forced to say who can use the library. This to small children?
1962
Contributions were reported from the Junior High PTA for $100.00 and $24.00 from the Ladies Literary Club to be used for books. Carpentry work has been redone. Contract from the state library for the contribution was signed. Junior library chairs were promised from Wayne Evans, Franklin County Grain Growers, Republican committee, Harold Pinson, Lynn Fackrell, Richard Hendricks, Carol Condie and J. Neff Boothe. New janitor sought. The city is planning to lay black top between the curbing and the library wall. Silicon brick proofing and roof seal to be purchased from Lewis Davis. Mrs. Greaves suggested that books be checked out for one month with no renewal and that fines be paid in labor where they can’t be done in cash. Carol Condie asked for her release as a board member[39].
Mrs. Lee Sant replaced Carol Condie on the board. Merlin Lewis, janitor, was asked to get Mrs. Solley’s room ready. He will repaint the spots on the wall on extra time. Sufficient funds were had to purchase six more chairs, two round tables, and two oblong tables. County residents will pay $5.00 per year per family or 10 cents per book rental. Mr. Boothe to write the story on the remodeling program. Book drops to be installed upstairs and down. [40]
Library out of funds to complete the children’s library and volunteer work was needed to complete it. Merl Klippert to be asked for Friday night. Bill Weber to care for the knocked-down lumber. Walt Ross to take unused lumber and beaverboard back to Anderson Lumber. Harold Pinson to ask city night- watchman to check on the library building regularly. Out-of-town rental program to start in January. Farm Bureau Auxiliary to be asked about supplying the drapery for the library.[41]
1963
Cards for each family member discussed. Legal patrons include anyone living within city or paying city tax. Individuals outside the city may get a card for $3.00 for library membership per year.
Miss Geddes suggested that she be released as librarian and proposed that she be given the Junior Library and that a new librarian be hired. She can go on Social Security. Board approved and will advertise for a new head librarian.
Schools to be given free use of library, and it was decided to ask them to donate for replacements. Approved on a temporary basis.[42]
LIBRARIAN RESIGNS AFTER TWENTY-FIVE YEARS SERVICE
“The Preston Library Board Wednesday morning accepted the resignation of Miss Martha Geddes, librarian. Miss Geddes has been librarian at the Preston Carnegie Library for 25 years. William Weber, spokesman for the Board, expressed his regret at Miss Geddes leaving.
Miss Geddes was instrumental in starting a youth section at the library which was climaxed this past year with the completion of the youth library in the basement.
She is a lifelong resident of Preston, attending Preston schools and graduating from college. She later filled an LDS mission and taught school.”[43]
The hours for the new Youth Library Section are 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. The hours of the general library (upstairs) are from 2:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday thru Thursday, and from 2:30 to 8:00 on Friday and 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. The library charges for those outside the city of Preston are $5 per family or $1 per person and 10c per book.[44]
Problems with school use came up. Schools to meet with library board to work out solution. Rhyl Swainston presented a form for reporting our finances to him. Problem of coal chute repair was discussed. Two candidates for librarian to work for two weeks with Miss Geddes or state help. Total revenue for 1962 was $8,642.43. Total expenses were $7561.98.[45]
Applications for librarians were reviewed. Hours to be worked determined to be approximately 70 hours per week to be split between the two chosen. Wage is to be 90C per hour with paid holidays and vacation. Rate increase to be considered at the end of six months. Applicants: Camilla Norton, Ada Hansen and Dona Webb to be contacted and interviewed for the job. Miss Geddes termination date is to be February 15th.[46]
Rachel Penske, Assistant State Librarian was in attendance. She discussed her reactions to the enlarged library and the junior library downstairs. She reported that the selection was good, a credit to former librarian, Martha Geddes. Many books have been repaired and more need to be rebound or mended. The easy books are pretty well worn and many will need to be replaced. New personnel seem to be alert and willing, and will no doubt gain experience as they are new to this work. Schedules should be flexible for the good of the library and the workers’ outside interests. Open one morning each week. She recommended standardized procedures for the best utilization of time. Purchase books from standard buyer’s guides. New Method Book Binding Co in Jacksonville, Ill. charges about $1.07 per volume, and they are the firm the Idaho State Library is using for rebinding this year. Also Hunting and Cadman binderies. Wilson cards are recommended. Many helps are available from the Idaho State Library and should be utilized. She recommended that schools outside the taxing area pay a reasonable price for use of books.[47]
LIBRARY EXAMPLE OF COMMUNITY COOPERATION
The object was to provide a pleasant and roomy area for a youth library to properly house the extensive collection of junior literature, accumulated over a span of many years by Miss Martha Geddes, librarian. This selection of material was housed in the west section of the main floor area, and more room was needed for ready reference and use without unduly crowding the entire floor.
After a study of the basement area and drawing of tentative plans by an architect under direction of Miss Geddes, Glen Call, a contractor, was called on for advice, and recommended that the central partition be removed to make one large room which would adequately house the books and equipment of a youth library.
The Preston Jaycees, under the direction of Varlan Clark, Doug Campbell and Allen Dunn, removed the central partition. They also removed the partition in a storage room and hall to make a large magazine room. They then removed a large section in the old magazine room and cleared shelving to make way for a second rest room.
Duane McKenzie and Sons, contractors, removed an extra door from the basement entrance hall and closed the opening. This work, likewise, was done as a contribution to the youth library project.
Harold Pinson, City Councilman, replaced the wiring left with the removal of the central partition, and routed the conduit to cover the gap between the ceilings of the two former rooms.
Carlson Brothers were engaged to prepare the walls of the two contained rooms for painting and patched plaster in rest rooms and halls as well.
Under the direction of Floyd Didericksen and J. Neff Booth, trustee, members of the Lions Club painted the ceilings, walls, and woodwork of the central room, the retained office rental space, and the entrance hall. Mr. Boothe and Carol Condie, a former trustee, made the color selection and type of new furniture as a committee of the board.
Mrs. Greaves, together with the custodian on extra time, removed the old paint from the floor with sander and paint remover, to prepare for floor covering.
The Preston Elks Lodge, under the direction of Burton C. Martin, Exalted Ruler, purchased and donated asphalt tile which was laid by Martin, Glen Call, Rulon Owen, Dean Brostrom, and Howard Johnson, members of the lodge.
The Preston Rotary Club, under the direction of O. D. Robinson, purchased and installed a toilet and a basin to provide a second rest room and partitioned a hall leading from the central hall to provide access.
The roughed-in connections were fortunately still in place from a former restroom used when the basement served as a city hall before the present city building was purchased. This saved considerably on plumbing costs.
At first it was determined that the old shelving from the stacks to be emptied upstairs were to be used wherever possible to save cost and this material was removed and partially prepared for use by the Preston Post of the American Legion , under the direction of Eddie Davis, and the local Carpenter’s Union, under direction of Alonzo Handy.
Later, on reconsideration of walls involved, it was decided to re-shelve the entire room in adjustable pine shelving, which was installed by Meryl Klippert and son Bill, carpenters, each donating part of the labor as a contribution. The Carpenter’s Union gave a cash donation also, toward the completion of this project.
Next it was time to start finishing the new shelving and J. Walter Ross, Richard Hendricks, and William Webber, trustees, sanded and finished the shelf frames. Mrs. Greaves, along with Preston city employees including Miss Geddes and Carol McEntire, Dave Jones, Sara Bambrough, and Ruby Eames Booth, applied finishing coats to the shelves. The old shelving was used in a modified form, on new, lower stacks upstairs, which added breadth to the room, and makes it possible to view the entire room from the librarian’s station
In the basement, door frames were removed, shelves installed, and painting of the restrooms and halls completed by Elvoid Monson. Old shelving was adapted to the new magazine room by Mr. Weber and the custodian. This room was also given a coat of paint at that time.
Mr. Hendricks spearheaded the drive for new furniture by asking for donations for library chairs which were donated by firms, organizations, and individuals to be announced later.
Likewise the PTA organization, American Legion Auxiliary and literary groups made cash contributions which were used to purchase tables and other furnishings.
A complete list of donors will be made public and a suitable recognition placed in tablet form in the library when it has its formal opening.
Librarian Martha Geddes, who has served as librarian for the past 25 years, asked to be retired from her duties, due to the increased responsibility of the entire operation, impairing her health.
A new librarian has not been designated at this time, but three capable women are now sharing the work of the two libraries. They are Ada Hansen, Camilla Norton, and Donna Webb, working under the direction of Mrs. Greaves, who had library experience when working in Preston schools prior to her marriage. Mrs. Richard Fenske, Assistant State Librarian, came from Boise to initiate training of the new personnel, and to orient them in their duties.
Viewing the project as it nears completion, one cannot omit credit to the many years of service of Miss Geddes has given to the selection and care of the volumes and to her pages, Linda Nielson and Rhonda Hammond, for their painstaking efforts.
“The good will evinced by so many contributions and generous friends has fully justified our hopes and efforts,” Miss Geddes said.”[48]
A tour of the library was made and conditions noted by board members. Magazine rack needed. Writing for invoices on delinquent bills and having a check made of books received. Library to be closed for two weeks in July for inventory. Book-binding and weeding discussed. Book loaning to literary clubs discussed. Three copies of statements required from suppliers. Board will approve statements, send three copies to city treasurer. He will return one statement with voucher to supplier, keep one for his files, return one copy with voucher numbers to library, all invoices attached, then filed. Employee wages raised to $1.00 per hour. Librarian to supply information on amount of use of books in each school district so as to ascertain maintenance cost. Also length of time books are kept. Librarian also to set up and maintain a simplified filing system for business records.[49]
STRAY BOOK DAYS HELD AT LIBRARY
“Stray book days will be held at the Preston Carnegie Library, according to Helen Greaves, chairman of the library board. The days, something that is planned to encourage the returning of overdue books, are planned for Thursday through September 2.
During these days, anyone who has a book or knows of someone who has a book from the library that is past due may return the book without a fine—no questions asked— Mrs. Greaves said.
She said the library is short many books on the inventory and most of those books are overdue--many of them long overdue. Included in the books are some special reference books.
The same thing was tried in another town and some 300 to 400 books were brought in that they didn’t know they had.
The “no questions” and “no fine” will permit patrons who have had books checked out for some time to drop them off without being embarrassed or paying a large fine.” [50]
Bill Weber resigns from the Library Board. Plans for trial run of bookmobile and district meeting to be held December 5 were discussed. Possible replacements for Mr. Weber discussed: Idella Larsen, Barbara Howells, Lorna Larsen, Maurine Burton and LaRae Johnson were names submitted to the mayor.[51]
1964
Bookmobile to begin circulation March 20 with stops at Dayton, Weston, Franklin, Whitney,
Preston, Riverdale, Mink Creek, Clifton-Oxford, and Fairview. Three thousand books will be
available through this service. Plans for Library Week discussed. New typewriter needed and
bids procured. Budget approved. At the end of the bookmobile demonstration, a county board
will need to be elected. Obligations – financial reports twice yearly with annual library report.
Books they buy for the library will stay here. All stamped books go back to the state. Equipment
will stay here. Plan to extend use of library books from state to six months’ time. 33% use library
where a district or county Library District exists.[52]
Plans for Book Week, bookmobile, high school English classes to her book reviews of outstanding modern books, open house at the library to be held Saturday. Mrs. Johnson to arrange for refreshments and Mr. Ross to handle publicity. Storm windows and caulking for the basement windows would cost $480.00. Painting problems discussed. $755 on a complete job estimate. The entrance discussed but further investigation needed. Carpenters to be contacted. Plaque of donors to be ready for book week. Two bids on typewriters – Underwood and Smith Corona at $220. Social Arts Club to take the Story Hour for the summer.[53]
The Preston Carnegie Library is celebrating National Library Week with an open house this Saturday, April 18. The theme “Reading is the Key” will be highlighted though displays and inspection of the building and the new and recently rebound books on the shelves.
The youth library has been improved and refinished in time for the open house. “This is one of the outstanding features of our library, and those who have not yet seen this section should use this opportunity to come and see the vast improvements made in the building and to the service the library now offers,” the library board said.[54]
Remodeling the entrance discussed. Approximately $600 is available for the project. Recommended that door be replaced and any other repairs done to make the entrance more attractive and functional.[55]
Aesel Bell proposed to use the room used by Selective Service as one for genealogy purposes. Changes would be at their expense. Persons using this facility would need to buy a library card if they live outside the city. Lynn Fackrell to install a new wash bowl and toilet in the men’s rest room, also move the radiator from the lower hall into the east room. The appointment of a new board member to replace Richard Hendricks was discussed. Names suggested: Mary Lou Moser, Donna Noyes and Sara Nelson. Muriel Johnson appointed as temporary board member to serve in place of Larae Johnson while she is on leave of absence. Holiday closing from Dec. 23 to January 4 except open Saturday December 26 and Saturday January 2 from 11 to 5 as usual.[56]
1965
Budget discussion. Names considered for new board member: Joe Garner, Eileen Fuhriman, and Joyce Bambrough.[57]
Members of city council in attendance: Joseph Goff, Harold Pinson, Glen Gamble, and City Clerk Rhyl Swainston Library Cards discussed. $1.00 student cards being used by other family members. It was decided that along with the $5 family card that we issue a $2 plus 10 cents a book card effective May 15 and that persons already having $1 cards could apply the money to either card. Mrs. Hansen to make up a form letter to patrons violating library rules, informing them that further action would be turned over to the police department. The group agreed that the 1966 library budget be raised $1500, the amount given to the library by the County of Franklin in 1962. This $1500 went into the city general fund and has never yet been used by or for the library. Names discussed to succeed Richard Hendricks: Ted Larsen, Ilene Fuhriman, and Louise Hickenlooper. Inspected the new door and inside entrance renovation, repairing or mending of books being done by librarians, and possible outside work to prevent rain from splashing on basement windows. Preston city informed us that the receipts being sent to the City office are not being credited to our account as the city governing laws state that we are allowed to use only the amount set up in the budget.[58]
The Preston Carnegie Library board this week set the out-of-city book fees at $7.50 a year. This is an increase of $2.50 a year for those taking books out of the library who live outside the Preston City limits. Library officials said that Preston City residents are paying an average of $11 a year for the service through the city tax and it was felt that the outside users cost should be nearer to that figure. It was reported to the board that the remodeling in the basement of the library is about complete. A reading room is being developed with a folding door between the room and the children’s library.[59]
A book was recently donated to the Preston Carnegie Library in memory of Mrs. Nettie Robinson. The book “Porter Rockwell, Man of God” was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Earl G. Robinson. It is now available for use by the patrons, according to Mrs. Bill Hansen, librarian.[60]
Summer hours at the Preston Carnegie Library will be from 3 to 9 p.m. on weekdays and noon to five on Saturdays. According to Mrs. Bill Hansen, librarian, these hours will last until school starts in the fall. The library has been closed for the past week for inventorying.
A new summer reading program will be sponsored by the library. Mrs. Hansen said that anyone who was interested may inquire at the library. She also said that story reading hours will be held with the time and days to be announced later. [61]
New Books
The World’s Greatest Showman, The Life of P. T. Barnum, by Bryan III, Catherine the Great, by Katharine Scherman; Wild Bill Hickock Tames the West, by Stewart H. Holbrook; John James Audubon, by Margaret and John Kieran; The Flight and Adventures of Charles II, by Charles Norman; Famous Pirates of the New World, by A. B. B. Whipple; The Fall of Constantinople, by Bernadine Kielty; Exploring the Himalayas, by William O. Douglas; and Kit Carson and the Wild Frontier, by Ralph Moody.[62]
The following list of teen fiction books may be obtained now at the Preston Carnegie Library: Treasures in the Depths, by Robert Uhl; A Business in Pets, by Nell M. Dean; Frozen Trails by Richard Morenus; God’s River Country, by Marion and Ben Ferrier; Off the Beam, by James L. Summers; The
Plume Hunters Mystery, by Nickerson Wallace; Ballet Teacher, by Lee Wymdham; Blaze Battlers, by Stearstewart Sterling; Clean Up Hitler, by Lee Friendlich; The Enchanted Islands, by Archie Binns; Thunder Country, by Armstrong Sperry, and Unwilling Pirate, by West Lathrop.[63]
Some best sellers now on the shelves are Hawaii, Michener; Advise and Consent, Drury; Exodus, Uris; Dear and Glorious Physician, Caldwell; The Devil’s Advocate, West; Act One, Hart; Twixt Twelve and Twenty, Boone.
New books added Friday were A Distant Trumpet, Horgan; and Two Weeks Before Murder, Metcalf.[64]
Martha Geddes, local librarian, announced this week that the following books have been added to the Preston Carnegie Library recently. Return to Japan, by Vining; Apple Blossom Daze, Hart; Murder Must Advertise, Sayers; Mistress of Mellyn, Holt; 1959 Prize Short Stories, Engle; The Listener, Caldwell; The Edge of Day, Lee; Dear Miranda, Wilson; A Net of Gold, Ekert; Carrington, Straight; The Dean’s Watch, Goudge.[65]
New science fiction books of particular interest to teenagers are: Nine Tomorrows, Asimov; The Star Conquerors, Bova; Red Planet, Helnlein; Star Guard, Norton; Star Rangers, Norton; Stargate, Norton; Stadium Beyond the Stars, Lesser; A Treasury of Great Science Fiction, Boucher; and The Best From Fantasy and Science Fiction, Mills.[66]
1962
New books: Mile 18 by Ur; Spirit Lake by Kantor; Gone with the Wind by Mitchell; Murder Makes Its Mark by Judd; Border Buckaroo by Stanley; A Corpse for A Client by Gabriel; The Final Deduction by Stout; Franny and Zoey by Salinger; The Executioner by Boulle; Jim Thorne, Occupation and Adventure, by Thorne; Gift Book; Jacqueline Kennedy by Thayer; Return to Devils Pass by Steele; Junior Prom by Craig; The Little Juggler by Cooney; Treasure Island by Stevenson; What Do You do, Dear? by Joslin; Made in London by Bemelmans; Kickapoo by Miles; Flight Deck by White; Faraway Farm by Boden; Stepping Stone to Love, by Gilmore; The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night by Spier; The Gray Sea Raider, by Shirreffs; The Mysterious Shell by Cameron; Camp in The Yard by Thompson; The Carting Crowd by Summers; The Sacred Jewel by Faulkner; Song to Idaho, Centennial, 1992, by Idaho Writers; Island City by Davis; The Best Plays 1960-1961 by Kronenberger; The Romantic South by Kane; You Can Trust The Communists to Do Exactly as They Say, by Schwartz; Aerospace Word Power, by Mark Hart; Fourteen Stories, by Buck; The Bridge Over the River Kwai, by Boulle. Just a few new books for old and young. Read! Read! Read![67]
A list of Illustrated Classics was made by the National Library Journal for teenagers. These books are in the Preston Carnegie Library: Pride and Prejudice, by Austen; Lorna Doone, by Blackmore; Jane Eyre, by Bronte, Wuthering Heights, by Bronte; The Last Days of Pompeii, by Lytton; The Way of All Flesh, by Butler; The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, by Clemens; Huckleberry Finn, by Clemens; Lord Jim, by Conrad; The Moonstone, by Collins; The Deerslayer, by Cooper;
The Last of the Mohicans, by Cooper; The Pioneers, by Cooper; The Red Badge of Courage, by Conrad; Two Years Before the Mast, by Dana; Robinson Crusoe, by Defoe; David Copperfield, by Dickens; Tales of Sherlock Holmes, by Doyle; The White Company, by Doyle; the Three Musketeers, by Dumas; The Mill on the floss, by Eliot; Silas Marner, by Eliot; The Return of the Native, by Hardy; Tess of the D’Urbervilles, by Hardy; The Luck of Roaring Camp, by Harte; The Scarlet Letter, by Hawthorne; The House of Seven Gables, by Hawthorne; Green Mansions, by Hudson; The Hunchback of Notre Dame, by Hugo; The Sketchbook, by Irving; Westward Ho, by Kingley;
Captains Courageous, by Kipling; Kim, by Kipling; The Call of the Wild, by London; Book of Tales, by Poe; The Cloister and the Hearth, by Reade; Ivan Hoe, by Scott; Black Beauty, by Sewell; Quo Vadis, by Slenkiewicz; The Black Arrow, by Stevenson; Kidnapped, by Stevenson; Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde, by Stevenson; Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Stowe; Gulliver’s Travels, by Swift; Vanity Fair, by Thackeray; The Mysterious Island, by Verne; Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, by Verne; Ben Hur, by Wallace.[68]
New books include: The Man by Irving Wallace - in this powerful political novel an unexpected accident and the law of succession has just made a Negro the President of the United States. The Official Warren Commission Report on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy A Song of Sixpence by A J Cronin – This is Dr. Cronin’s latest novel set in the beautiful western highlands of Scotland. When the Cheering Stopped - the last years of Woodrow Wilson, by Gene Smith
The 480 by Eugene Burdick – The story of an extraordinary presidential campaign and a new breed of political experts who believe that voters can be sold a candidate as readily as a housewife is sold a name-brand toothpaste. This Rough Flame by Mary Stewart – A novel of suspense set in the island of Corfu off the coast of Greece by the author of “The Moon Spinners” The Brigadier and the Golf Widow by John Cheever – A selection of 16 short stories. Armageddon by Leon Uris – The aftermath of World War II and the conduct of the cold war in Europe form the motif of this novel by the author of Exodus.[69]
Seventeen new books were listed at the Preston Carnegie library this week, including: The Tower of Babel by Morris West; The President’s Plane is Missing by Robert Serling; Christy by Catherine Marshall; Mark I Love You by Hal Painter; Catherine the Queen, The Story of Catherine of Aragon by Mary Luke; Wiv A Little Bit O’Luck, the Story of Stanley Holoway; Airport by Arthur Hailey; The Admiral by Martin Dibner; The Valley of Laughter by Peter Defries; Gipsy Moth Circles The World, Sir Francis Chester’s Own Adventure; Fresh From the Laundry by Ilka Chase; The Disciple by Clark Brown; The Care and Feeding of Parents by Pat Boone; Born to Raise Hell, the Untold Story of Richard Speck by Jack Altman; The Time is Noon by Pearl S. Buck; A Horseman Riding by R,F. Deiderfield; Endless Night, a suspense novel by Agatha Christy.[70] Preston Citizen, November 20, 1969, p. 15
1969
New books that have been added to the library collection in both the adult and children’s divisions. Included in the adult titles are: The Senator by Drew Pearson and My Life With Jacqueline Kennedy; A Case of Nullity by Evelyn Berckmann; The Shadow Wife by Dorothy Eden; Puppet on a Chain, by Alistair MacLean; Trespass by Fletcher Knebel; Embassy by Stephen Coulter; A Pocketful of Rye by Archibald Joseph Cronin; The House on the Strand by Daphne Du Maurier; My Life With Jacqueline Kennedy by Mary Barelli Gallagher; The Lost Queen by Nora Lofts; The Vines of Yarrabee by Dorothy Eden; The Winter People by Phyllis Whitney; Roseheath by Katherine Troy; Carriage 7 by Seat 15 by Claude Aveline; The Spy Who Spoke Porpoise by Phillip Wylie.
Children’s books include: Science Project Puzzlers; Great Hitter s of the Major Leagues; The Wind on the Dragon by Joyce Stranger; The Wolfing by Sterling North; Rogues Gallery by Parker; Golden Goose by Grimm; The Great Sleigh Robbery by Foreman; The Fireman by Kotwinkle; The Eggs by Aliki; Ote by Belpre; Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves by Luzzati; Hufu And the Turkeyfish by Beaty; The Black Sheep by Merrill; The Planets by Lauber; Bears on Wheels by Berenstain; Hand, Fingers, Thumb, by Perkins; The Black Stallion’s Ghost, by Farley; Mystery of the Laughing Shadow by Arden; King Midas And the Golden Touch by Perkins; Fattypuffs and Thinifers by Maurois; The Great Pie Robbery by Scarry; The Super Market Mystery by Scarry; The Birds of Basel by Parry; The Yeggs and the Yahbuts by Smithies; Merry Rose and the Christmas Tree June by Orgel; Jane’s Silver Chair by La Farge; The Pocket Mouse by Willard; Daring Detectives by Hitchcock; What is Right for Tulip? by Duboisin; Meet Robert E. Lee by Trow; Around America, A Cookbook for theYoung, by Knoff; latotops by Castillo; Medical Corps Heroes of World War II by Blassingame; and The Restless Ghost by Garfield.
National Library Week
1961
Display posters stressing the importance of reading have been placed in local store windows and around the library and a lighthouse featuring library week has been put up in the Preston library. These displays were made by the library staff assisted by Johnny Hart. Martha Geddes, librarian, talked to the boys and girls of the first and second grades Monday morning and to the junior high school students Tuesday. Wednesday she interviewed Mark Hart for his work as an author, his recent trip to the National Education Convention and on his new assignment to prepare books for the Air Force.
1964
J. Neff Booth, Chairman of the Library Week Open House and a member of the library board, said that there will be library personnel on duty at the time of the open house to show the interested persons around and explain the workings of the library. He also stated that light refreshments will be served to those browsing on Saturday afternoon.
The new homey atmosphere and the easy access of the reference materials have been accomplished by some minor changes in the stacks and re-cataloguing of materials, “and of course the extra room in the upstairs as well as the youth library has helped to make ours an outstanding asset to the community,” Mr. Boothe added. “We on your library board cordially invite you to inspect and to comment on your library this National Library Week and to use it every day of the year.”
One of the highlights of the open house to be held this Saturday at the Preston Library will be the bookmobile. It will be parked in front of the library from 3 to 5:30 p.m. People may register and check out books at this time. The regular run of the bookmobile is every third Wednesday thereafter. The next stop will be April 15 and then May 6, then every third Wednesday thereafter.
The Bookmobile contains some 3,000 volumes for all ages and every variety of books to meet everyone’s taste from beginning readers to all ages. Also on the book mobile unit are several sets of reference books.
Bill Gordon, library in Pocatello, said the bookmobile has finished its first full 3 weeks and he and Miss Marry Green, who runs the bookmobile, agree that the run was very successful, especially in Franklin County. They said that 2, 769 books were circulated, and 412 adults and 574 children checked out the books.
Mr. Gordon said that he would welcome any suggestions to improve the stops or selection of books. One of the big events of the week was a series of book reviews presented to the Preston High School English classes. The following book reviews were given so that each student heard at least two of them: “Hawaii” by Mrs. Gerte Webb, “My Darling Clementine” by Mrs. David Beckstead, “Travels with Charlie” by Mrs. Lyle Shipley, ”Rogers and Hammerstein,” by Mrs. John Manning; “No Time for Sergeants,” by Mrs. Mrs. Norman Howell, and “Ye Jeeps and Julips,” by Mrs. Harley Greaves.
At the 100th Birthday Party of the Library in 2015, Kristi Keller Westover submitted the following memories of going to the library when she was young.
I don’t know how old I was when I got my first library card, because I don’t remember not having one. I loved the library. It seemed as if it wrapped comforting arms around me every time I walked through the door. I felt at home there and I thought I could find the answer to anything in the books that were just waiting for me to take them off the shelf and start reading. And I could read whatever I wanted, mystery, romance, historical novels. You name it; I read it. I read it. Each book was an adventure, just waiting for me.
I even liked the return chute as a child. I’d put the book through the little opening and watch it slide down the slide onto the waiting table. I always wondered what would happen if the table got full and there wasn’t room for more. But the librarians took care of the books so I never found out!
I remember going downstairs to find the books to take home and treasure as a child. Dr. Seuss, is the author I remember I looked for the most. Then as I got older The Secret Garden was a favorite. I discovered the Dr. Dolittle and Clara Barton books. There was a contest one summer to see who could read the most books. I won the contest in my age group and I was given a book as a prize. I remember graduating to the books upstairs. I discovered Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier and any book by pearl S. Buck.
I loved looking at the old Preston citizens stored in big books. I think by the year, finding my birth announcement, it was fascinating to me to be able to go back and read about myself! I spent a lot of time sitting in the library looking at the old editions of the paper. And of course, the reference materials for research papers, read and take notes at the library, then go home and write the paper.
The books had a pocket on the inside cover of the book. Inside the pocket was a card. When a book was checked out, the librarian would stamp the due date on the card, then hand write your library card number. I memorized my number and if I couldn’t’ remember if I’d read a book by reading the title, I would look at the card to see if my number was there. It was a great way to keep track!
Then I discovered the card system. If I wanted to find a specific book I would go to the cards and find where it was in the library. Eventually I learned how to find books without the system. If I knew the author I could find the book. The Preston Carnegie Library holds a special place in my heart, and I was sad to see it go.
[34] Library Board Minutes, April 22, 1961 [35] The Preston Citizen, March 13, 1969, page 1 [36] Library Board Minutes, July, 1961.
[37] Library Board Minutes, November 9, 1961 [38] Library Board Minutes, December 7, 1961 [39] Library Board Minutes, April, 1962
[40] Library Board Minutes, August 6, 1962 [41] Library Board Minutes, November 15, 1962 [42] Library Board Minutes, January 9, 1963
[43] The Preston Citizen, January 10, 1963, [44] The Preston Citizen, January 10, 1963, page 1 [45] Library Board Minutes, January 30, 1963
[46] Library Board Minutes, February 1, 1963 [47] Library Board Minutes, February 17, 1963 [48] The Preston Citizen, April 4, 1963, p. 1
[49] Library Board Minutes, June 17, 1963 [50] The Preston Citizen, August 22,1963, p. 10 [51] Library Board Minutes, December 2, 1963
[52] Library Board Minutes, March 2, 1964 [53] Library Board Minutes, April 4, 1964 [54] Library Board Minutes, April 16, 1964, page 1
[55] Library Board Meeting, October 14, 1964 [56] Library Board Meeting, December 6, 1964 [57] Library Board Meeting, January, 1965
[58] Library Board Minutes, April 27, 1965 [59] The Preston Citizen, December 8, page 1 [60] The Preston Citizen, May 18, 1967, p. 1
[61] The Preston Citizen, June 8, 1967, page 1 [62] The Preston Citizen, March 3, 1960, p. 3 [63] The Preston Citizen, March 10, 1960, p. 11.
[64] The Preston Citizen, April 28, 1960 p. 5 [65] The Preston Citizen December 1, 1960, p. 1 [66] The Preston Citizen, December 8, 1960, p. 2
[67] The Preston Citizen, January 18, 1962, p.7, “Library Chit-Chat” [68] The Preston Citizen, February 15, 1962, p. 1, “Library Chit-Chat” [69] The Preston Citizen, March 11, 1965, p. 2
[70] The Preston Citizen, March 28, 1968, page 9
Gayle Mooseman, assistant librarian, holds volumes of “Your Family Hour” and “Doctrine and covenants and Pearl of Great Price” which have been purchased by the Preston Carnegie Library on tape cassettes. The library also features new carpeting on the floor for a quieter atmosphere. The cassettes and many others are available to county and city library patrons. The Preston Citizen, January 8, 1976, p. 9.
During the 1920s, library records shifted from being handwritten to being typewritten.
Library Board Minutes and Preston Citizen Artlcles:
1970
It was suggested that the library take over the handling of fund and accounting of the library budget. Elvoid Monson was approved to do extra work at the library. Elvoid Monson was approved to help with the furnace and miscellaneous duties for 2 hours a day.[71]
The Britannica was ordered for the reference library. Douglas Webb offered to loan the library a paperback book rack. Future board meetings were changed to 4:00 on the last Friday of each month.[72]
It was decided to purchase a 90-day note at 5%interest to make a little extra money for the library. It was suggested that the library take about 20% of the magazines and renew them at cut-rate offers. Ada reported on regional meeting in Blackfoot. It was suggested that the paint be patched where needed on floors and walls, and a report was given on a retaining wall. Robert Ensley and Davis McDaniels from the State Library visited the library. They were impressed with the library collection and the youth library. Richmond library board members visited the library for ideas. Ada was to attend Library Institute and Ada and Ellen were to attend one day of the ILA convention in Burley. [73] The Library Institute ran for five weeks with librarians from all over the state attending.[74] Summer reading program will begin June 8 to encourage children to read during the summer.[75]
New August hours are from 3 to 6. Request was submitted to the city council for the maximum mill levy of 5 mills along with anticipated budget to justify the need.[76]
Ada to borrow 500 books from the state library for six months’ use. New hours are from 2-9 weekdays, and 2-5 on Saturday. Summer book program was an outstanding success.[77]
“The Preston Carnegie Library announced this week the results of the summer reading program. The program was open to youths in grades two through eight. One of the requirements was that half of the books read had to be non-fiction. Of the 43 young people signed up, 28 received certificates for completing the program. Prizes were awarded in three categories and were won by Adair Vaterlaus, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Vaterlaus, Merry Lyon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Lyon, and Judy Ann Dahle, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Max Dahle. Honorable Mention went to Dawn Hyde, Brad Vaterlaus, and Lori Thomas. First place winners received a book of classics.”[78]
The youth collection was weeded with the help of Davis McDaniels of the state library board. She was extremely pleased with the youth collection and said it was as good as any she had seen. Paper-back books are being reinforced with clear contact paper to prolong their use. Several patrons have donated paperbacks. Gaylin Fuller, president of ILA, visited the library. He suggested that we weed the adult collection.[79]
Report on Fall Workshop for trustees and librarians. Ada asked for two parking places in front of the library reserved and enforced during library hours. Plans were made for new steps in front of the building. Plastering over the door and painting of the main library room were discussed. [80]
“A story hour will again be held in the Preston Carnegie Library this Saturday starting at 2:30 p.m. It will last one hour and will be under the direction of the west Side Future Homemakers of America chapter. It will be held every Saturday until Christmas.”[81]
********************
Following is an account of the disagreement between Preston City and the LDS Church over water bills and ownership of library property:
City Council Minutes, October 26, 1970, P. 55
WHEREAS, a deed given to the city pertaining to the parcels of land known as the city park entrance and the strip of land the Preston Carnegie Library is constructed on, which was given in 1919 by the First Ward Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to the city of Preston, and
WHEREAS, the conditions of the deed are such as to prohibit the city from charging any water charge to any and all church buildings and the city park and, WHEREAS, it being the decision of the council this deed with its binding conditions are outdated and can no longer be maintained by the city, and WHEREAS, the council deems it in the best interest of the city taxpayers to turn the city park back to the church, and WHEREAS, from this day forth the city will no longer care for nor furnish free water to the park or any church buildings, THEREFORE, IT BEING DULY MOVED BY Lyle Shipley and seconded by Lee Berquist, it is the unanimous decision of the council to order the clerk and attorney to notify the salt Lake city offices of their decision and also to send a copy of the complaint letter rendered to the city by Bishop Wayne Bell in regards to the charges for water, sewer and garbage for the 7th ward church and, It is unanimously passed this 26th day of October to void the agreement in said deed to the extent of the church reclaiming the parcel of grounds named in said deed. Mayor Glen Gamble, Lyle Shipley, Glenn Call, Lee Berquist and Ted Roper.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES, November 11, 1970
The water charges for the church-houses were discussed, with a decision that December 1, 1970, if the bills are delinquent the Stake Presidents, Carl Mortenson and Dean Palmer respectively, are to receive a copy of the letter dated October 27, 1970, to the church offices in Salt Lake City, advising the church of the city’s decision to return the park property and responsibility to the church. Also a letter advising them water service will be discontinued if not taken care of.
CITY GIVES PARK BACK; WHO OWNS THE LIBRARY?
The Preston Citizen, December 6, 1970, p. 1
The Preston Carnegie Library is built upon the ground deeded to the city by the LDS Church.
The deed states that if the city does not live up to the conditions of the deed it will revert back
to the church. Recently the City wrote the church that they will no longer abide by the
conditions.
As far as the City of Preston is concerned the LDS Church can have the city park back and
some councilmen feel that that included in the package is the property on which the library
sits and the entrance to the park off of State Street.
The city council in a special meeting on October 26, which came to light this week, notified
the LDS Church in Salt Lake City that the city could no longer furnish water to the churches of
the city, which was among the stipulations in the deed to the city in 1915. The deed included
only the property on which the library now stands and the entrance to the park, the parking
area along the alleyway and possibly the alleyway itself.
“It is the decision of the council this deed with its building conditions is outdated and can
no longer be maintained by the city,” the minutes read.
The deed was executed in 1915 and in addition to requiring free water to the church buildings of the community it also stipulates that the city will keep up the property known as the city park.
The old deed came up when the city revamped its water rate structure and started billing the churches. Pres. W. Dean Palmer of the Franklin Stake told the city that the agreement provided for free water and said that he had suggested to the bishops in his stake that they not pay the water bill until the matter was settled.
The minutes of the special meeting also read that a copy of a letter from Bishop Wayne D. Bell to the council be sent to the church office. The letter said that the LDS wards had to be billed through the agent bishop of a building where more than one church unit meets and not to individual wards. No reference was made to not paying the water bill or the original deed.
The final paragraph of the minutes pertaining to the action reads that the city will “void the agreement in said deed (deed of the library property, etc.) to the extent of the church reclaiming the parcel of grounds named in the deed.
The mayor and two councilmen agreed that the action gave the property of the library back to the church, but the other two councilmen disagreed.
Mayor Glen Gamble said that if the county won’t help us pay for the library we don’t want a library anyway.
Lee Berquist, a council member said, “yes it includes the library property and the entrance to the park
The only area left owned by the city is the city trailer park which was put in this year.” As for the library, he said, “There won’t be one unless the church operates it.”
Lyle Shipley and Thedford Roper said that they understood that the action of the council includes only the area of the park and not that land deeded to the city. Mr. Shipley is the one who made the motion to the council, and Mr. Berquist is the one who seconded it.
The clerk who prepared the minutes said that it was her understanding that the motion was to include the library property and the entrance. The minutes were approved in the following council meeting.
The minutes of the meeting state that the city will no longer furnish free water to the churches and that the city will no longer maintain nor furnish water for the city park. Local church officials were undecided which action to take.
The deed was executed on Feb. 16, 1915 by the “Preston First Corporation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, by Henry Bodily, Bishop of the Preston First Ward.” The deed states that if the city does not live up to the conditions of the deed, the church may serve notice and if not complied with on 30 days the “whole of sold property shall revert to the party of the first part, its successors and assignees forever.” The party of the first part is the LDS church. Though the deed was executed in 1915, it was not recorded until July 14, 1919 in the county court house.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES, December 14, 1970
The two following resolutions were read and passed upon unanimously:
Be it hereby resolved by the Mayor and city Council of the city of Preston that delinquent taxes prior to 1969 already disbursed to the Preston Carnegie library in the amount of 527.26 as per schedule recorded in the minutes is to be deposited out of the December tax remittance into the General Fund for the grounds and reasons that the City of Preston supported the library prior to the tax year 1969 when said library over-expended their annual appropriation budget. Only delinquent taxes due to the library on 1969 taxes and subsequent years will be deposited to the library fund. For clarification: Delinquent taxes received for years prior to 1969 yet received subsequent to 1969 shall be to the general fund account. (Tax schedule given next)
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES, January 4, 1971
WHEREAS, the city deems the following deed from the church to the city in 1915, outdated, the city desires a new deed giving the property in question to the city with no binding conditions. (A copy of the old deed was then included). AND WHEREAS, the city’s decision is to maintain the church’s billing as follows: water $5.75 sewer, $3.50 and garbage, $2.00 making a total bill of $11.25 per unit and to bill all other church buildings according to their category, and in the event the church desires the city to maintain and care for the park until such time as the church desires to develop or use this ground that a new lease could be drawn up.
A deed executed to Franklin County as follows was discussed:
This deed, made the 23rd day of February, A.D., 1915 between the Preston First corporation of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a corporation organized and existing under the laws of Idaho, party of the first part, and Franklin County, a municipal corporation of the State of Idaho in the County of Franklin and State of Idaho, party of the second part, WITNESSETH: That the party of the first part, for and consideration of the sum of one dollar, to it paid, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, does herby grant, bargain, sell and convey unto the party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever, all the following described land and premises, situated in the County of Franklin, State of Idaho, to wit: Commencing at a point 455 ft. East and 49½ ft. South from the Northwest corner of section 26, township 15 South, Range 39 East, Boise Meridian, and running thence East 200 ft. to the Northeast corner of Block 10 of the Preston town site Survey and running thence South 218 ft. thence West 200 ft., thence North 218 ft. to the place of beginning. No jail or such buildings to be erected on this land unless it be on the inside of the courthouse. This grant is intended for court House and Court House grounds only. TOGETHER with all and singular the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said premises, with the appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns forever. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the said party of the first part has caused its name to be subscrived hereto and its corporate seal affixed, by its Bishop, duly authorized, the day and year first above written.
The church officials expressed they felt billing on each unit was not feasible and thought one bill for the Stake houses was sufficient. They proposed the church would draw up a new deed clear and free, the city would bill only the wards not the stakes, the Seminary or the Welfare house.
The Mayor expressed the billings would be left the way they are and the city desires a new deed free and clear.
It was duly moved by Ted Roper and seconded by Lee Berquist to drop the billing on the two stake units retroactive to October, 1970, but the respective wards, seminaries and all other church buildings were to remain the same charge as originally debited out; with each ward to be billed according to units using the building.
The church officials reported this was satisfactory and they would in exchange notify the Presiding Bishop in Salt Lake city, Utah, to draw up a new deed to the city for the ground in question clear and free to the city with no binding conditions.
And that solved a problem that was never mentioned in the Library Board Minutes.
********************
1971
Because of a coal shortage in the city it was suggested that the coal bin be kept filled at the library. The Chief of Police was contacted about parking spaces in front of the library. Ellen Greaves proposed we try to bring salaries up to minimum wage. It was proposed that we have a sinking fund to take care of major repairs. Start with $500 and add $500 each year in the form of a Savings Certificate to be purchased from First Bank and
Trust of Idaho.[82]
Wiring should be replaced before painting is done and investigate the need for re-roofing job. A library loading zone is unavailable due to parking issues. Ada to attend ILA convention in Boise. It was suggested that magazine subscriptions be extended for a longer period of time to save subscription fees.[83]
Ada to attend cataloguing workshop in Pocatello; Ada did not attend ILA conference because of illness. Wiring has been replaced and $125 paid to Glen Godfrey. Three windows were broken by rocks from construction of the new bank building--will check insurance coverage. Suggestion was made to buy bank certificates with $2,500 and also a $500 note put in the sinking fund at Idaho Bank and Trust. These issues were delayed until later in the year when finances will be in better shape.[84]
The summer reading program is to run from July 1 to August 31. Curley Dockstader will replace the windows broken by construction. $2,000 note was purchased for 90 days and a $5oo dollar note for 60 day period for library from First Security Bank. The minimum wage will be $1.40 per hour. Painting upstairs was completed for $150. The library will close during July and august on Saturdays to save on expenses. Inventory was completed on the adult collection and books were pulled for rebinding and/or repair.[85]
A special Christmas story hour was held on December 24 for children under 10.[86]
1972
“Do you have some friend or relative who cannot read fine print, who may be confined to bed and cannot lift a heavy book?
Mrs. Bill Hansen, librarian of the Preston Carnegie Public Library, may be able to help provide special reading materials for those with visual problems.
The local library has on hand 12 large print books and can obtain more from the Regional Center Library in Pocatello, or the Idaho State Library. These are proving very popular with persons who are having difficulty reading popular books in the regular edition.
Mrs. Hansen also reports that she can get a talking book machine which is a special phonograph with a very slow speed so any person so handicapped that he or she cannot read printed materials. The phonographs for legally blind are distributed by the Idaho Commission for the Blind, and those for the partially sighted or otherwise physically handicapped are distributed by the Idaho State Library.
After a user has the talking book machine, or cassette tape machine, he may obtain talking books, taped books, cassettes braille or large-print books, through the regional library for the Idaho-Utah area.
This is the Utah State Library, 2150 South 200 West, Salt Lake City. There is a toll-free number, 800-453-5520, which blind and physically handicapped may use to make inquiries or place orders for materials.
The Idaho State Library contracts with the Utah State Library for this service.”[87]
Mayor Gamble was in attendance. A construction grant and the library budget was reviewed and discussed. It was suggested that an application in writing be made for the additional half mill levy allowed to libraries, and also talk to the county about financial support.[88]
The Preston Carnegie Library budget has been submitted and it was noted that finances for that institution are in better shape than ever before at present, and enough money has been saved and set aside for the old steps to be replaced. The library has been an entity separate from the city budget system for the last three years. Mrs. Ruth Weber was appointed to the Library Board to replace Lyle Shipley[89]
MAY GIVE A BOOK IN MEMORIAL
“All who desire may, upon the death of a friend or loved one, contribute a book or books to the Preston Carnegie Library.
The donor could state the specific title of the book desired, or the general subject matter. If the contributor has neither a specific book or subject in mind, the choosing of the book could be left to the discretion of the librarian, fitting the personality or interest of the person in whose memory it is given.
The books so donated would bear a card on the flyleaf inscribed “In memory of _____.” A thank-you card would be sent to the donor and the immediate family by the library.
The library is presently planning a separate shelf for the memorial books.”[90]
LIBRARY SCHEDULES FILM HOUR
“The Preston Carnegie Library’s summer reading program will end August 19. At 1:00 a film hour will at the library. The films will be based on children’s story books. At that time the winners of the summer reading program will be announced. All children up to the seventh grade that are interested are invited to come.”[91]
Discussed a meeting with the county commissioners regarding the formation of a county library district. A petition with 75 certified signatures in favor a district was filed at the court house. Notices will be published in the local paper for two weeks prior to the hearing. It is anticipated that it will be on the ballot in November. Landscaping is needed in front of the building and on the parking area as a result of putting in new steps and curbing. Six people have used the talking book machines. Ruth Weber asked to be released from the Library Board. Myrtle Wright donated books to the library.[92]
LIBRARY DISTRICT PUT ON BALLOT
“When the polls open Nov. 7, Franklin County voters will have to decide if the county will form a library district in the county. The board of county commissioners has been discussing library facilities for county residents for some time, and when a public hearing was held Oct. 18, 15 persons attended to register support of the formation of a library district. The Preston Carnegie Library Board was also in attendance at this meeting.
After discussion it was decided to put the question to a vote by the general public and the county clerk was asked to draw up a ballot to be used by all voters who are residents of the county, but not by voters in the city of Preston. Preston already has formed a library district. County residents can vote on this issue even if they are not registered voters. Non-registered voters simply sign a sworn statement that they are citizens of the United States, and now reside in the county, that they are 18 years old or older, and not residents of the city of Preston.
It was noted that the maximum the county can levy for a library is 2 mills. After a district is formed it is not necessary that an organized library be built. The county would contract for services with the now Preston city library. The two districts would combine at a later date, if it is to be found beneficial to both parties, also.
When consolidation of city and county library facilities was discussed, Mrs. Ellen Greaves, chairman of the Preston Library board, said that the hours and the facilities of the present library would need to be expanded if the two consolidate.
If the library district is voted in, it will be included in the 1973 budget and funds will be available in November of that year. One of the library board members, Doug Webb, noted that the library would open its facilities to county residents as soon as the district is formed, and expand its hours and facilities after the district was funded.
The official ballot for the library district will consist of the sworn statement as to the eligibility of the voter, which will be removed from the actual ballot, and the ballot which explains the issue. The voter will then simply mark “yes” or “no” after the library district question.” [93]
The needs of both city and county groups as to which source of service would be best to follow was discussed. A member of each board will meet to work on a budget. A cleaning woman was hired for four hours a week after Mrs. Sharp terminated her services.[94]
LIBRARY SETS STORY HOUR
“The Preston Carnegie Library will hold the annual Christmas Story Hour on Saturday. According to Ada Hansen, librarian, all of the children of the county and city, under the age of 11 are invited to the story hour. It will be held at 1 p.m.
The library will be closed during the holidays and will open again on Jan. 2.
The library, which is owned by the city of Preston, is now open to all residents of the county without charge, pending action by the new county library board.”[95]
1973
Library budget followed with tentative budget. Possible repairs were discussed with no decision reached.[96]
Ellen Greaves requests release as chairman because of illness of her husband. It was suggested that she be given a leave of absence instead. Roofing problems were discussed and bids requested. The contract between city and county for library service was discussed between both groups and changes that should be made. The final contract was agreed upon and will be signed as soon as a new draft is drawn up. Longer hours were decided upon to accommodate county people. New hours are 1 to9 on weekdays and 11 to 7 on Saturdays. The audit report was given and the new budget discussed. Quarterly meetings between county and city boards were set for the 4th Thursday of January, April, July, and October[97]
The librarian was asked to keep bookkeeping records on county circulation, finances and references questions. New carpet and paneling are needed. Stucki Miller will do the roofing for $1,300. A grant for air conditioning was discussed. The contract between the city and county has been signed. The ILA conference was discussed.[98]
LIBRARY WEEK NEARS
“The Preston Carnegie Library will be celebrating National Library Week April 8-14. In connection with observance of library week, there will be a special sewing demonstration. Mrs. Roma Schlehuber of the Stretch and Sew agency in Pocatello, will be here on April 11 at 1:30 to demonstrate the technique of sewing on stretch fabrics. All ladies from the city and county are invited to attend. The library has recently purchased the Stretch and Sew patterns. These will be available for checkout purposes.”[99]
LIBRARY ADDS SERVICE
“Preston Carnegie Library has instigated a program during library week which will be a boon to the woman who sews year round. Through special cooperation with the Stretch N Sew store in Pocatello, the library will now have this brand of pattern to loan. About 60 patterns are now in stock ranging from swimsuits to toddlers to ladies dresses to patterns for men.
As a special service to the people in the community, Mrs. Roma Schlehuber, owner of the Pocatello Stretch N Sew franchise, gave a demonstration on the sewing technique of one of the company’s newer patterns, the one–size body shirt. During this demonstration she also gave instruction on how to make the individual pattern from those in the library.
Mrs. Schlehuber has taught many classes of sewing on knits in the county and similar classes are now underway in the high school during evenings under the community education program, making the availability of these special patterns very timely. They are gauged for sewing on knits only, and employ up-to-date techniques employed by the manufacture of more expensive knits on the retail market ,
Persons needing assistance with the use of the patterns or the special techniques for sewing on knits may contact Mrs. Schlehuber at her Pocatello shop. She will also schedule further classes in the area.
Mrs. Ada Hansen, head librarian, said the patterns will be available to individuals on a one-week basis. And a person must be a holder of a library card, as is the case with borrowing of the library’s books and records.
The desire to bring this service to Preston came to Mrs. Hansen when she noted the program was being carried out in the Portneuf Library in Pocatello.”[100]
NEW LIBRARY HOURS
Weekdays, 1-8, Saturdays 11-7[101]
April 23, 1974
Meeting with County Board. Ada explained the service for the blind and handicapped through the State Library. It was reported that a grant for air conditioning had been made to the library through the Regional Library system. Waangsgards bid of $2,894 was approved. Financial problems were discussed. Circulation is improving each day. A sale of discarded library books will be held and advertised in the newspaper. Both boards agreed to join the regional library system. Representatives present were Barbara Robinson, city; and Sybil Stewart , county.[102]
HANDICAPPED MAY RECEIVE AIDS
“Reminder about the services for the blind and handicapped with large print books and reading machine. People who are unable to come into the library because of illness or other handicaps may receive special service simply by calling 852-0175, the library number.
They can give specific authors and titles, or just give topics they are interested in, one of the clerks will select the books for them and send them by mail if they live out of the city. They can be returned the same way.
For those living in the city, they can be delivered to your door. “Try it, you’ll like it.”[103]
“Donations made to Library: The Preston Carnegie Library reports that the Preston Kiwanis Club has donated over 100 merit badge pamphlets to the library’s collection. This makes the Merit Badge books collection totally up to date and is a fine contribution for use of Scouts in the area.
The Ladies Literary Club has made a generous cash gift for the purchase of children’s books. This contribution has been made annually for many years. The Fine Arts club has also made a generous cash contribution each year for the purchase of children’s books. Literature Club gives the money for two or three books each year to the library. These fine contributions help to improve the library collection and are certainly appreciated.
Summer Reading: The Summer Reading Program for youngsters will begin June 24. Please ask at the library for details.”[104]
“The Preston Carnegie Library has received a $600 state grant for the purchase of library materials. Two volumes of “The Book of Mormon,” one volume of “The Doctrine and Covenants” and “Pearl of Great Price,” and three volumes of Family Hour on cassette tapes have been purchased, said Head Librarian Ada Hansen. These newly purchased materials are available for check-out, she said.”[105] The quarterly report was presented. The audit was reviewed and accepted. The balance of funds is $4,799.85. Walt Ross will investigate the use of idle funds. Mr. Bingham suggested that the Relief Societies in various wards be alerted to the services for the blind, handicapped, or homebound. Ada reported her trip to ILA. Improvements noted: air conditioner, carpet on stairs, paneling in basement and roof repair.[106]
The quarterly circulation report and report on financial status were given. The Youth Training program was discussed. One girl student will be placed for training and will be paid minimum wage by a government program. The building was inspected and in order to conform to public code there must be an exit from the basement. Plans to be formulated.[107]
The financial report for the quarter was given. A crash door was discussed. It was decided to put in a 2x8 solid core, birch door, with panic hardware and automatic closer to be installed by G and S Cabinet. They will also change the door jambs for $379. An electrician will install a buzzer. The 1975 budget was discussed. Turkeys are to be given to board members at Christmas as a small recognition for their service.[108]
STORY HOUR SET
Mrs. Dawn Rumsey will be the storyteller at story hour.[109]
NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK BEING OBSERVED
“Can you guess who is the favorite patron of the Preston Carnegie Library staff?
Maybe it’s your child who loves dog stories and reads each new one that the library staff recommends. Maybe it’s your teen-age student who has consulted the library staff often and now knows his way around the library in his search for school assignment material.
Or perhaps it’s your husband who has saved a bundle by asking the Librarians for material to help in unraveling some business mysteries. Or it could be you, if you come in often.
The more you consult the librarians and the more you use the books and materials there, the better you are liked. Join the Library’s popularity contest and you , too, could become their favorite patron. Do it this week during National Library Week!”[110]
Roofing and furnace repairs were discussed. The budget is to be presented to the city in September for approved mill levy. Capital expenditures should be listed separately on the books. Financial and circulation reports were presented. Puppet and Marionette shows will be available for summer programs; cost is $35 for two shows plus mileage. Help is available on a government program for painting the trim and foundation of the library. New parking facilities are to be installed at the rear of the library. Barbara Robinson requested a release from the board as she will be moving. The board viewed the paint job in the children’s room and the new crash door.[111]
Microfilms have been completed and the local papers returned. A mechanical reader will be needed to use the films and other libraries will be contacted to find out types and prices. It might be possible to check one out. It was suggested that this project be coordinated with the genealogy people. The parking area in the rear will soon be blacktopped and then the landscaping will be taken care of. It was suggested that we connect a paved walk from the parking lot with the walk on the east side of the building. The city will see to this and also a sprinkling system will be used in the landscaped area.[112]
The circulation and financial reports were given. The Trustee’s Workshop will be held in Idaho Falls. Microfilm and all newspapers, plus extras gathered from other sources which were missing from Preston Citizen files were returned. The purchase of a reader was discussed. A metal file cabinet is needed for pictures and pamphlets. The staff cleaning the library jointly is working out quite well. Bids were received on carpet for the upstairs reading room. [113]
The city agreed to pay for repairs at the back of the building made necessary after the new parking lot was put in. The circulation statistics and financial standing were reviewed. A 4-5 mill levy was discussed with Mr. Keller and he felt we should be getting it. This will be asked for in our next budget along with justification of the amount. [114]
The bid was approved for carpet in the upstairs reading room. Foss Furniture’s bid was accepted for carpet in the upstairs reading room. At $7.05 a yard laid plus coving at 90c a foot, the total cost will be $1,691.77. A microfilm reader was purchased at $410. Approval was given for a file cabinet for picture and pamphlet storage. The time certificate was extended for another 60 days to pay for carpet. The Arts and Humanities Grant for framed art prints was not given, but application will be made again before the February 15 deadline. Room darkening blinds have been installed in the youth library for showing films. A ditto machine was one item mentioned for request for a regional grant. The possibility of making use of one at the Chamber of commerce and applying for a grant for a machine that will make stencils was discussed. Also, a multiple copier and juvenile stack chairs could be requested. Ada is working on a policy manual.[115]
1975
The budget, circulation and finances were reported. Grants are now available and permission ws given to apply for them. Mrs. Maughan will help with budget matters. A reporter from the Herald Journal came to a do a feature article on the library and the facilities. New carpet was laid during Christmas Holidays and is very nice. The micro-film reader is now in service and was displayed and explained. Mrs. Anderson agreed to serve as Regional Representative for the City Board.[116]
1976
LIBRARY TO DISPLAY MATERIALS FOR
HANDICAPPED
“The Preston Carnegie Library will
have on display beginning this week,
many of the materials to help the
blind and physically handicapped.
Talking book machines, cassettes,
large-print books, and magazines
are available through your library.
If you have a loved one who could use this service, we invite you to come in
and see the display. Applications will be taken any time for this material.
Please help our blind and physically handicapped take advantage of this service
available through your public library.”[117]
The Summer Reading Program will have a Bicentennial Theme.[118]
A report was given on the roof refinishing; it was coated with an aluminum product to preserve the roof and also for insulation purposes. Story hour was successful, due somewhat to the use of the projector received with grant money and films borrowed from the state library. New blinds for the youth library were ordered. Landscaping near the parking area is going forth as planned except for some minor changes in the location of the sidewalk. The fiscal year is changing from October 1 to September 30. This will necessitate making a change in the budget. Connie Maughan will get news to The Preston Citizen once monthly.[119]
The flag pole lights were discussed. The city put the power reaching the light on the library meter. This was done without any word to the library and makes the library light bill about $30 a month more. Parking violations were also discussed and it was agreed that the city should define the area for legal parking on the parking lot by painting lines in the “no parking” areas. Shrubbery was ordered for the rear of the building. The new workroom was completed and in operation, which takes a big load off the checkout area and gives the staff a more efficient place to work. The board worked on the budget.[120]
1977
Included in the budget for 1977 is an area to be petitioned off in the southwest corner of the upstairs reading room for a work room. This area will be used for cataloging, mending, clerical work, etc. New equipment for clerical work was discussed. Ada applied for a grant for a new typewriter and printer calculator, which should speed cataloging and other clerical duties.[121]
LIBRARY WEEK PROCLAIMED
Your library needs your active support and use. That’s why the American Library Association’s message during National Library Week (April 17-23) is “Use Your Library.” It’s the best thing you can do for your library and for yourself.
Just some of the services the Preston Carnegie Library offers are: Up-to-date fiction and non-fiction for both adults and children; cassettes and records; weekly story hours for children; services to the blind and handicapped; a good reference sections; and access to collections at the Idaho State Library in Pocatello.
It is services like these that are beginning to make people realize that libraries can be an essential part of their lives. Nationally, library circulation is up 10 percent, the biggest jump in the 37 years circulation records have been kept. Locally the Preston Librarian reports circulation up 35 percent in the last five years.
A Gallop Poll taken last year found that 92 percent of heavy library users reported that their children are also library users. It also found a strong correlation between library use and high education and employment.
National Library Week is a good time to start tapping the resources of your local library. Come in and see the Wilder display in the library during this week. Laura Ingalls Wilder is well-known as the author of the “Little House on the Prairie” series. Saturday, April 23, a story hour will be held for children at 1 p.m. (This article was followed by the Mayor’s Proclamation.)[122]
Circulation statistics are still high. Work will begin on the new work area. Parking issues are to be discussed with Lennes Keller. [123]
Budget money will be used without trying to save money for future needs, as it was felt that we were being penalized for trying to save money. The city will be forced to take care of those expenditures when they arise. A Friends of the Library group was discussed.[124]
1978
Purchase of a sizeable collection of youth books was approved. Inspection of the furnace room found it to be in good condition. ILA Membership was purchased. A regional grant to purchase a bookcase to house special collections that were valuable and can be locked was discussed. Publicity was discussed. Journalism students will be doing articles about the library for the local paper. Leora Bloxham was hired to catalog books on a part-time basis. The flag pole problem was discussed with Lennes Keller.[125]
In the Preston Citizen In March, mention was made again of the talking book machine for the blind, and about services for the handicapped at the library.
Lenness Keller reported on discussions concerning the formation of a library district. Materials and a project grant were received from the region. Purchase of children’s books was discussed. GED exams were given at the library. [126]
COUNTY LIBRARY BOARD AGREES TO INCREASE
“Preston City officials expressed gratitude this week to the Franklin County Library District Board for increasing the county support to the Preston Carnegie Library in Preston.
The district library board last week approved an increase of $4,049 in the amount given by the district to the Preston library for library services. The district contracts with the city of Preston for library services for the area outside the city limits.
The district also agreed to a rewriting of the contract between the city and the county Which would set the amount of support from the county to the library at 45 percent of the library budget collected from taxes. The figure agreed to this year will exceed that by one percent.
According to Mayor Wayne Bell, the county library board has been most cooperative with the city in helping to maintain and improve the Preston library. They agreed to additional money when they weren’t required to in order to help meet the budget needs of the library.
The city earlier agreed to increase support by $1, 621.
The Preston library board submitted a budget of $28,000 to the city for the coming year of which $7,000 was the amount listed as coming from the county, as has been the amount since the county first contracted with the city. Because the budget for the library was such a big one, the county board was asked to help meet it on the basis of increased use by the county.
The county residents at the present time are checking out 43 percent of the books in circulation from the library.
Mayor Bell pointed out that the relationship between the Preston Library Board and the Franklin County Board since the first contract was signed has been outstanding. County people have been more than willing to do whatever possible in building the library program.
According to Preston board members, the contract with the county has enabled the library board to increase the services of the facility and make improvements that would have been very difficult otherwise.
Library officials said that the arrangement has been one that has been very rewarding to those involved and has been mutually beneficial to both the city and the county.”[127]
Requirements for grant monies: 80% attendance at regional meetings, report of use of grant forms, copy of Annual report, copy of current budget. If these requirements are not met, the grants will not be forthcoming. The statistical reports were reviewed with a substantial increase noted over last year. The audit was completed by Neil Nelson. All monies will be dispersed through the city office from now on. All excess funds at the end of the fiscal year will be carried over in the library fund. Deficits will be charged to the library fund. Ada has been working on a policy manual for the library. A rough copy will be reviewed by the board for possible changes, deletions, or additions. Meetings attended: Ada and Connie – ILA. Ada and Phyllis, Regional meeting. Ada, Connie and Katie – Trustees Workshop. Ada, Regional Executive board. Carpet was laid in the juvenile library. An open house for patrons was planned. City and County boards act on committee with Connie and Jean acting as chairmen. Inexpensive soft-cover books were presented to children in lieu of candy as a gift from the library. Something is needed to house cassettes purchased in the last several years.[128]
1979
New Books
Book sale advertised. Duplicates, donations from book clubs, paperbacks.
New books: I’ll Tell Them I Remember You, Blatty; Across the Bitter Sea, Dillon; Come to Me in Silence, poetry by Rod McCuen; Smith Valley, Means; Gower Street, Raynor; A Candle in the Wind, Richardson; Penelope, the Damp Detective, Anderson; Going Like Sixty, a Light-hearted Look at the Later Years, Richard Armour; Emcee Monty Hall, a Biography, Hall and Libby; Liberace, an autobiography; Snare of the Hunter, MacInnes; The Salamander, West; Women are My Favorite People, Art Linkletter.[129]
Fiction: The Last Enchantment, Mary Stewart; Damnation Reef, Jill Tattersall; Skeletons, Glendon Swarthout; Spring of the Tiger, Victoria Holt; The Tightrope Walker, Dorothy Gilman; The Fen Tiger, Katherine Marchant; Dinah Faire, Virginia Coffman; Point of Honor, Alan Scholefield; Dead Zone, Stephen King.
Non-Fiction: Anyone’s Daughter, Shana Alexander; The Flying Whitehouse, Albertazzie; Time to Heal, Gerald R. Ford; Yes, You Can, Art Linkletter; Beyond Reason, Margaret Trudeau; My Dishtowel Flies at Half Mast, Mary Kuczkir; Travolta to Keaton, Rex Read; The Complete Scarsdale Medical Diet, Tarnover; Nurse, Peggy Anderson.[130]
SIX DAYS OF THE CONDOR, Grady. Action-packed suspense story revolving around the destruction of a branch of the CIA. National Best Seller. ISLAND OF THE SEVEN HILLS, Cass. Tale of suspense set on the island of Malta. MOTHERLAND, Davis. The days before women’s lib., the only way out of the home was marriage. This novel, which is set during the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, is about one woman’s attempt to break out. FALKENHORST, Rascovich. Historical novel that takes place during the Franco-Prussion war. EMERGENCY ROOM, Heinz. Documentary novel of doctors, nurses and patients struggling in the Emergency Room of an urban hospital. CHATEAU, Coulter. Family saga set in the legendary land of the great win Chateaux in Bordeaus. CLIFFS OF NIGHT, Brandon. Gothic novel with Ireland as the setting. KILGAREN, Holland. Kilgaren, a small Caribbean Island, provides the setting and suspense for this novel depicting a family’s strife endeavors. MEMORY BOOK, Lorayne and Lucas. Have you ever wanted to improve your memory? This well-written book by one of the stars of the New York Knicks may show you the easy way to remember. ALL THE PRESIDENTS MEN, Woodward and Berstein. Two Washington Post reporters who helped reveal the Watergate scandal tell the entire behind-the-scenes story of the way it happened.[131]
[71] Library Board Minutes, February 6, 1970. [72] Library Board Minutes, February 16, 1970. [73] Library Board Minutes, March 27, 1970. [74] The Preston Citizen, May 7, 1970, page 8
[75] Library Board Minutes, May 29, 1970. [76] Library Board Minutes, July 31, 1970 [77] Library Board Minutes, August 31, 1970 [78] The Preston Citizen, October 1, 1970, p. 11.
[79] Library Board Minutes, October 16, 1970. [80] Library Board Minutes, November 19, 1970. [81] The Preston Citizen, November 26, 1970, p. 1. [82] Library Board Minutes, January 12, 1971.
[83] Library Board Minutes, March 26, 1971. [84] Library Board Minutes, April 29, 1971. [85] Library Board Minutes, June 28, 1971. [86] The Preston Citizen, December 23, p. 1.
[87] The Preston Citizen, January 27, 1972, p. 1. [88] Library Board Minutes, February 3, 1972 [89] Preston City Council Minutes, February 17, 1972, p. 4. [90] The Preston Citizen, March 2, 1972. p. 1
[91] Ibid. August 17, 1972, p. 1. [92] Library Board Minutes, October 5, 1971. [93] The Preston Citizen, October 26,1972, p. 17 [94] Library Board Minutes, December 7, 1972.
[95] The Preston Citizen, December 21, 1972, p. 1 [96] Library Board Minutes, January 29, 1973. [97] Library Board Minutes, January 23, 1973 [98] Library Board Minutes, April 4, 1973
[99] Preston Citizen, April 5, 1973, p. 1 [100] Preston Citizen, April 19, 1973, p. 10 [101] Preston Citizen, January 30, 1974, p. 1 [102] Library Board Minutes, April 23, 1974
[103] The Preston Citizen, April 25, 1974, p. 11 [104] Ibid. [105] The Preston Citizen, July 24, 1975, p. 2 [106] Library Board Minutes, July 25, 1974
[107] Library Board Minutes, October 24, 1974 [108] Library Board Minutes, January 23, 1975 [109] The Preston Citizen, February 6, 1975, p. 3 [110] The Preston Citizen, April 17, 1975, p. 6
[111] Library Board Minutes, April 24, 1975 [112]Library Board Minutes, July 31, 1975 [113] Library Board Minutes, October 23, 1975 [114] Library Board Minutes, October 28, 1975
[115] Library Board Minutes, Nov. 13, 1975 [116] Library Board Minutes, January 29, 1976[117] The Preston Citizen, May 6, 1976, p. 11 [118] The Preston Citizen, June 3, 1976. page 2.
[119] Library Board Minutes, July 22, 1976 [120] Library Board Minutes, July 29, 1976 [121] Library Board Minutes, January 27, 1977 [122] The Preston Citizen, April 14, 1977, p. 6.
[123] Library Board Meeting, April 28, 1977 [124] Library Board Meeting, October, 1977 [125] Library Board Meeting, January 26, 1978 [126] Library Board Meeting, April 27, 1978.
[127] The Preston Citizen, August 17, 1978, p. 3 [128] Library Board Minutes, October 26, 1978 [129] The Preston Citizen, May 2, 1974, p. 2 [130] The Preston Citizen, August 30, 1979, page 3
[131] The Preston Citizen, June 29, 1974
Bungalow style houses were being built from 1916 into the ‘20s.
“The Preston Carnegie Library has undergone a transformation as the basement area formerly utilized
as a rental office has been converted into a modern youth library, greatly enhancing the building’s usefulness to the area… and 11 organizations and groups made it possible.
The library board, working in conjunction with Elsie Bastian, Weston, county library coordinator, planned the renovation and remodeling job with advice from the Idaho State library. None of the operating funds provided by the city of Preston from a 3-mill tax levy were used.
Members of the present board are Mrs. Harley Greaves, chairman, J. Neff Boothe, secretary, with Richard Hendricks, J. Walter Ross, William L. Weber Jr., trustees.
Budget
The budget meeting was usually held in the spring. At mid-century, the library budget gradually increased from $3600 to $3850. It consistently funded from $1344 to $1680 for the Librarian’s salary, $400 for student help, about $425-450 for heat and lights, $100 for building upkeep, $200 for New Equipment, $180-$200 for Periodicals and between $700 and $800 for books.
Inventory
Inventory was done in the fall. The librarians counted books missing from the shelves, books missing from the files, and books discarded because of excessive wear. On average, they lost 16-20 books off the shelves, 20 books from the files and 140 discarded for wear.
Board Meetings
Yearly, the magazine list was reviewed. Every year some magazines were discontinued, and some new titles were added. In 1950 the board decided to hire two high school students to assist the librarian. They were paid 40 cents per hour.[ 21] In 1951 it was decided to charge 50 cents for books for book reviews because of wear on the books.[22]
In 1952, the city completely cleaned the building. New shelves were added in the storeroom and wash room, and magazines and supplies were carried into the newly painted rooms. The hall walls and floors were painted. Upstairs the ceiling was lowered and all the lights replaced. The walls were painted and inside windows washed. The cost was $1200. A request was submitted to the city for a magazine room.[23]
Money was always tight and the board explored an idea in 1952 of how to increase the budget money. There was a discussion on renting the magazine room as an office. By moving the magazine room to the storeroom, and moving the storeroom items into the wash room, it would be possible if more shelving was added to all the rooms. Money from the office rental would go to buying books.[24]
In 1953, all of the books were removed from the shelves so that the walls behind could be cleaned. It was determined that 300 books should have been removed because of damage to pages but were kept on the shelves. The renter in the office decided to leave, defeating the effort to find more book-buying money.[25]
In 1954 it was agreed to wait another year for filing cabinets as two new book sections were needed.[26] The roof was renovated and the floor redone. Books were donated by the 7th-Day Adventists and Post 38 of the American Legion.[27]
In 1955, Mr. William “Bill” Weber replaced J. E. Cushman on the board. The leaking roof was fixed and the lights were fixed. Library districts were discussed. As long as the county was giving $600, and because of the partnership with the school, it was decided to stay with the city as the source of funding.[28]
In 1957, Clifford Forsgren, Chairman of the Board, made three separate requests of the county Commission for a “contribution” to the library for library needs. He was granted $500 for 1955, 1956 and 1957.[29] Next, Mr. Forsgren requested a contribution from the county for the library. After discussion on the matter it was ordered that the Auditor issue a warrant in the amount of $500 for library purposes.
New Books and Book Donations
1950 donation by the Ladies Literary Club: "Twedles be Brave," "Friendship Valley," "Amanda and Sir Archibald," by Wolo; "The Cat that Walked by Himself,” “The Butterfly that Stamped, " "The Elephant’s Child,” “How the Leopard Got His Spots,” “ How the Rhinoceros Got His Skin,” and "How the Camel Got His Hump,” by Kipling; “The Furry Bear,” “The Downey Duck,” “The Fuzzy Pup,” and “The Fuzzy Kitten,,” by Hokey; “Timothy’s Angels,” by Bench; “The Children’s Music Box,” by Webster; “ Mr. Hobbs Can Fix It,” by Pickard; “Cats for Kansas,” and “Capt. Don and the Hole in the Doughnut,” by LeGrand; “The Biggety Chameleon,” by Pope; “Rosie the Rhino,” by Conger; “Daddy and Me,” “Jonathan and Squawky” and “Bawky,” by Loyting.[30]
Martha Geddes listed the following books that were added to the shelves: “Burns Mantie Best Plays of 1948-49”, Chapman; “Fire in the Dust”, McManus; “Witch Diggers”, West; “From Here to Eternity”, Jones; “ Joy Street”, Keyes; “The Form Divine”, Dobson; “The Maestro”, Tauleman; “A Flower for Catherine”, Swinnerton; “God’s Men”, Buck; “The Grand Portage”, O’Meara; “Steve Mother of the National Parks”, Shankland; “Foxfire”, Seton; “ LookYounger, Live Longer”, Hauser; “The Loved and Envied”, Bagnold; “Reducer’s Cookbook”, Heller; “Your Child and Other People”, Raemeister; “Information Please”, 1951, Kieralf ; “Circus Doctor”, Henderson; and new children’s books, westerns, mysteries and junior high school books. [31]
Children’s books donated by the Fine Arts Club: “The Doll’s Christmas, Tudor; “I Like Winter,” Lenaki; “I Can Fly”, Krauss; “Denny and the Dog Doctor,” Beim; “One Little Indian”, Moon; “The Happy Day”, Krauss; “Jeanne Marie Counts Her Sheep”, Francoise; “The First Book of Automobiles”, Tatham; “Big Brother”, Bannon; “The New Sitter”, Abel; “The Runaway Elephant”, Tarry; “Hi, Mister Robin”, Tresselt, “The Big World and the Little House,” Krauss; “The Story of Appleby Capple”, Parriah; “Rodeo”, Bracken.[32]
Books donated to the Preston Carnegie Library by the Literary Club: “The Art of Leadership,” Tead; “The Story of Art,” Gombrich; “The Story of the Metropolitan Museum”, Koiodin; “Contemporary Thinking About Jesus,” Kepler; “Successful Drawing,” Loomis; “Art and Life in America,” Larkin; “This I Do Believe,” Ltlenthal; and “Secret of the Andes,” Clark.[33]
Library Board Minutes after March, 1955 to April, 1961 are missing.
[21] Library Board Minutes, April 27, 1950 [22] Library Board Minutes, May 11, 1951 [23] Library Board Minutes, October 29, 1952
[24] Library Board Minutes, December 21, 1952 [25] Library Board Minutes, November 15, 1953 [26] Library Board Minutes, May 28, 1954
[27] Library Board Minutes, November 1, 1954 [28] Library Board Minutes, March 24, 1955 [29] The Preston Citizen, January 10, June 6 and December 26, 1957
[30] The Preston Citizen, August 10, 1950 [31] The Preston Citizen, May 31, 1951, page 1 [32] The Preston Citizen, September 13, 1951, page 4
[33] The Preston Citizen, September 10, 1953, page 1
Representatives from Preston City and County met at the Preston Carnegie Library to sign a contract providing funds for library services. Glenn Bingham, chairman of the county library district, Lyle Shipley, Preston mayor, Ada Hansen, librarian, and library committee co-chairman Doug Webb get together to sign the pact. Preston Citizen, April 11, 1974, p. 3
Ilene Fuhriman (right) recently retired from the Preston Library after 16 years of service to the public. Connie Maughan, member of the Library board, presents her with a gift of appreciation. Her friendly smile and help will be missed by the staff and library patrons.
Avard T. Fairbanks
Members of the Preston Elks Lodge are shown laying the tile for the new youth library at the Preston library. They were one of several groups donating labor and material for the community project. The members of the club include Glen Call, Dean Brostrom, Howard Johnson and Rulon Owen.