From the Ipswich Tribune, Thursday, August 13, 1931 edition
MARCUS P. BEEBE MEMORIAL LIBRARY DEDICATION EXERCISE FRIDAY, AUG. 21
The Marcus P. Beebe Memorial Library, which will be dedicated on Friday evening, August 21 at 7:30 o’clock is a gift to the city of Ipswich by the widow, sons and daughters of the late Marcus P. Beebe.
The building which is of a selected type of English Architecture is made of uncut native prairie boulders separated by a well defined tracing of white mortar.
The trimmings are of brown with gables of fancy stucco in deep cream. The roof is of colored tile in shades to harmonize with the stone and stucco.
It is practically fire proof. A vestibule leading into the basement and to the main floor is entered from the street. There is also an attractive lobby through which one passes from the vestibule to the large library and reading room.
One notices on entering, the abundance of light that permeates the building. There are groups of windows conveniently placed on all sides. The amber, green and delicate violet tints in a number of the panes serve to eliminate much of the glare of the bright sunshine. Provision has also been made for excellent artificial light.
The walls are of art plaster with incrustations that give a pleasing and decorative finish and of a tint that is restful to the eye. The woodwork of the entire building is a natural oak.
There are two or three long tables for adult readers in one section and low tables for the little folks. New oak book cases have been installed to hold the 4,500 volumes of the library and there are plenty of paper holders and magazine racks for the conveniences of its patrons. This new oak furniture which includes the librarian’s desk and reading tables complete the library equipment and is rated among the finest in the state.
One of the features of the library that brings forth much favorable comment is the floor. This is of rubber tile about one-fourth of an inch thick and is almost wear proof and practically sound proof. It is made of blocks set together with cement and it is a great factor in the elimination of fire danger. It is blocked out in attractive colorings which go well with the furniture and woodwork.
The basement is equipped with a supply room, a store room and a furnace room. There are ample toilet facilities and a place for storing janitor supplies. The building is heated by hot air and the heating plant is an especially efficient one.
The community room, furnished with chairs, tables and a piano is the most interesting room in the basement. It is an ideal place for club or community gatherings.
The walk leading from the street to the entrance is made of assorted broken marble set in yellow cement. The floor of the vestibule and the steps leading to the main floor and to the basement are of the same marble material. The walks and steps are a novelty in their line and are in themselves a beautiful piece of workmanship.
Mrs. Lillian Witz, is the courteous and able librarian and had held her present position for several years and is very popular with the public and library patrons. She is ever ready, willing and anxious to help with reading material and on account of her familiarity with the books and the reader’s tastes, she is of great assistance in helping to select reading and reference matter.
The Lawn is well graded and sloping with a good growth of selected grasses, which was seeded this spring and which has been the especial care and pride of Clyde Taylor all summer. He has kept it well watered and free from weeds and foreign growths until now, set as it is, surrounded by the Federation Zinnia Gardens it is the most attractive lot in the city.
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