History of the Pioneer Memorial Library (Colby, KS)

The Colby Public Library had its auspicious beginning in 1911 when a group calling themselves the Civic League of Women rented a small room in the front of Dr. Beaver’s residence. Thereafter they gathered books from relatives, friends and their own homes. They then proceeded to sell everyone who would listen a library card for $1.00. January 1, 1926 the library was closed due to a shortage of money and space. This however did not sit well with some of our more forward looking citizens. They met with the City Council and on March 14, 1926 (just 2 months later) the Colby Public Library was organized. It was then located in the Connelly building, moved to City Hall in 1936.

Space became an issue for the library so in 1960 discussions began about a permanent build. In 1961 the President of the Library Board of Trustees appointed three board members and the librarian to work with the Historical Society to develop plans for a new library on its own property. The library and historical society wanted to construct a building to house both public entities. Albert Frahm and John Pratt worked tirelessly contacting everyone in Thomas County to help with this project. Many of the original pioneering families donated to help raise around $120,000 for the original structure at 375 W. 4th Street. An initial gift of $5,000.00 was received from Mrs. Bertha Louis. At the February 8, 1961 meeting W.D. Ferguson, one of the organizing committee members (1926) of the Colby Public Library promised to donate one-third of the finances for a building that cost $100,000.00. Land was purchased from the Henry Theil estate for $12,500.00. Beatrice Davis, head librarian suggested the name be changed from Colby Public Library to Pioneer Memorial Library in honor of the large share of finances donated by descendants of the pioneer families. The building was dedicated Sunday January 26, 1964 at 2:30 pm.

In 1999, a large capital improvement campaign was waged, spearheaded by JoAnne Sunderman, the Library Director; the results being a beautifully integrated addition to the original building. In 2006 a basement renovation project was begun by Jeff Friesen, Library Director, and finished in 2007 by library staff. The basement was opened for youth and public programs for the library and other community organizations in 2008.

This library continues to thrive because of the grass-root pioneer spirit that exists within its citizens. They value and use their library. It is a tribute to the heritage of many through the years who have a vision to make their community a place where learning is desired and recreational reading and enjoyment can be shared.

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Written from historical documents – by Melany Wilks, Library Director 12-09-08

President: Mike Wiens
Vice President: Mike Larmer
Treasurer/Secretary: Rick Ress
Donna Henry

Jim Mardock
Maradith Molstad

Lisa Wilson

Note: Library Board of Trustees normally meets the third Tuesday of each at 7:00 A.M., in the library.  Please call to check for any variances.

Library Director: Melany Wilks

Assistant Director: Debbie Tittel
Children's Librarian: Judy Kleinsorge
Circulation Services: Carol Bohme
Adult Services/ILL Loan: Nancy Saddler
Weekend Supervisor: Mara Dee Fulwider
Weekend Supervisor: Wynn Duffey

Student Aide: Gunner Gawith
PT Clerk/Basement Aide: Leanna Larmer

PT Clerk/Basement Aide: Alicia Unruh