Talcott Library 125th Anniversary celebration fondly remembered past, looked toward future

News clippings, and memorabilia covered portions of Talcott Library on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2014. Memories dating back 125 years were honored while guests learned about new, exciting plans for Talcott Library.

Streamlining videos showed highlights of story hours, summer reading programs, special events or programs visits by guest speakers representing organizations and a time where Bozo the Clown came to the library sparked interest.

Library Director Bonnie Estrada introduced Pastor Dan Herman of the Old Stone Church. Pastor Herman gave insight into the connection between Talcott Library and the Old Stone Church.

"I was a small town kid all my life. I love small towns," said Pastor Herman.

"Rockton was formed in 1838. In 1848 the Old Stone Church was built of limestone. Talcott Library was already here. The Talcott family were members and donated the bell that rings every Sunday.

The Talcotts had financial means, generosity and foresight to see a great need to establish a library. On Aug. 22, 1889 an overflowing crowd gathered. Music was provided by Lyla Gayton, the Weber Quartet, and the Coronet Band.

"A formal dedication was done by way of electric lamps. We are here to celebrate the Talcott family and a dedicated staff and board at Talcott Library." Pastor Herman gave a blessing on the event.

Guests visited Mr. and Mrs. Talcott - portrayed by former staff member Laura Keyes and her husband Robert Kaplafke.

Mrs. Gayle Keefer served on the Talcott Library Board a total of 41 years. All current and past Trustees, Board members and Friends of Talcott Library stood receiving a round of applause.

"We have a hard working staff and we can count on them each day," Estrada said.

The Dairyhaus was given thanks for providing ice cream at the celebration. They also welcome hundreds of kids during summer reading programs.

"Rockton Cemetery Sexton Jerri Noller did some research of her own and discovered that Thomas is the only Talcott buried in the Rockton Township Cemetery. A plaque and wreath can be seen at his burial site.

Estrada credited various organizations who have made a positive impact.

"We will be opening the time capsule from our 100th anniversary in 2039," Estrada said.

Newly introduced is an eScript partnership with Schnucks. When patrons do their grocery shopping three percent of each purchase goes back to the library. Customers also may earn discounts on gas. Cards can be applied for at Talcott Library.

Past Library Board President Nina Herzer reflected back.

The first celebration of the Rockton Library building was held on March 13, 1889. Herzer read from an article that was seen in the Rockton Herald the next day announced that the reason for the meeting was to give citizens an opportunity to see the grain building completed as a library and also to enjoy a social gathering.

She shared a quote from the article: "The Honorable Wait Talcott and W. A. Talcott, the more than generous donors of this fine property, were present, which was a source of pleasure to the large number of citizens who filled the building to overflowing."

The article goes on to say, "Considerable time was taken up in short address by a number of citizen's who were anxious to express their appreciation of the gift of the property."

"One of the speakers was interrupted by the Rockton Coronet Band which played several selections which surprised and delighted everybody" and "were heartily applauded."

Herzer deemed the Talcott's donation as "one of the most important fine legacy's to be handed down to future generations."

"There have been many changes since 1889. Eighty-one years later the first addition was put on. An outside staircase has been removed and an indoor staircase was added."

Talcott Free librarians have kept everything operating smoothly. W. W. Austin was originally a teacher who served as head librarian from 1889-1891. Mary Forward followed during a 36 year term running 1901-1936.

Hilda Prag was well known in her 25 tenure from 1937-1964. Marion Hopkins was a familiar face for 13 years. She held her position from 1936 and 1964-1975.

Margaret Eddie held a post from 1975-1986. The longest running librarian is Bonnie Estrada who serves as Director today.

Current Library Board President, Gary Kovanda addressed the crowd. "We are here today, celebrating the 125th anniversary of Talcott Free Library to the public. The Talcott family was amazing in its forethought of gifting the building to Rockton to be used as a library at a time when libraries, especially in towns the size of Rockton." Talcott Library has been long known for its ambience and environment when people come in.

"The granary/store building is one of the oldest buildings ever to become a library. We have been careful to keep up needs." Kovanda referenced various building improvements.

"Our number one resource is our staff. I would like to thank them for their service." Talcott Free Library is one of the jewels of the Rockton community.

"In December 2008, Rockton received another generous bequest of $500,000.00 from William Keefer, former President and CEO of Warner Brake and Clutch Company."

"The intended purpose of the donation is to be used directly toward expansion; not for operating expenses. Toward that goal the board hired a professional library consultant and an architect to help create a building plan."

Board members visited other libraries and talked with their personnel. A focus group and staff gave input on future needs. Results include keeping the library in the same place, and increasing meeting area space giving young adult area more room.

Kovanda reassured, "The library has no plans to move. It is landlocked." "I invite all of you to look at plans for future growth," Kovanda concluded.

The original building was built in 1850. Over the years a series of additions provided more space. In 1889 a new sign reading, "Talcott Free Library" was hung on the building which is still seen today.

A children's room with a fish tank was added in 2002. A basement and attic still exist in the library. The library also owns the building that the Dairy Haus is in.

Kristie Dantuma designed a three-tier cake. Guests had a chance to pick up bookmarks, cloth bags, or key ring tags for children. Many wore anniversary T-shirts designed by Jodell Sadler.

Dale Seiberling was given thanks for his many contributions to child patrons.

A full rich history came to light at a very memorable 125th anniversary celebration of Talcott Library's dedication to the Rockton community!