Kendall Young Public Library, Historic library in Webster City, Iowa
Kendall Young Public Library is a public library in Webster City, Iowa, completed in 1916 with Beaux-Arts architecture designed by Chicago firm Patton and Miller. The structure features rough stone walls on the front, tall Ionic columns at the entrance, and a stained glass dome inside that fills a central room with colored light.
The library was founded in 1896 after benefactor Kendall Young left money to support reading and education in Webster City. The current stone building opened in 1916 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, recognizing its importance to local heritage.
The library is named after its benefactor and reflects his vision of supporting the community through education. It functions as a gathering place where residents of all ages participate in book clubs, children's story hours, and local programs that reinforce learning and connection.
The library is located at 1201 Willson Avenue with parking available nearby and accessible facilities for people with mobility needs. Visitors can borrow books, magazines, and DVDs, use public computers, and access online resources for research and learning.
The library houses rare artworks including a Venus of Milo sculpture brought from Italy in 1912, along with manuscripts from renowned writers like MacKinley Kantor and Clark Mollenhoff. The Jane Young Room displays these treasures and allows visitors to request access to materials not commonly found elsewhere.
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