Karl Junginger Memorial Library

Mission Statement:

The Friends of the Karl Junginger Memorial Library shall be a non-profit organization whose objective shall be to promote the interest and welfare of the Karl Junginger Memorial Library as a cultural, educational, and recreational asset to the Waterloo community.

History:

Waterloo's first library, which was accessible to the public, was formed by the Waterloo Literary and Dramatic Association in 1868. R. J. Reamer served as the first president of this Association, while the first secretary was E. M. Dickenson. The Literary and Dramatic Association held frequent performances and benefits, and the proceeds of these entertainments were used to build the library's collection.

In 1901, this group was chartered by the state as the "Waterloo Public Library Association," whose officers were: H.G. Ryder, President; A. J. Beerbaum, Vice President; Mrs. H. M. Knowlton, Secretary; and Mrs. Lewis Lewellin, Treasurer. By 1915, Waterloo's library possessed approximately 3,000 volumes and was located above the village hall on Madison Street.

In 1929, the Waterloo Public Library Association surrendered the library's holdings and furnishings, as well as its financial responsibility, to the Village of Waterloo.