This week I visited the Kendall Young Library here in Webster City. In the past I would browse the books and look for a few DVDs to borrow for long winter evenings.

This time was a bit more focused; I’ve decided to expand the resources I utilize to write this column. I settled down in an overstuffed chair and began to go through the extensive collection of Webster City history available.

As time passed and pages turned, I began to realize what a treasure our community really has in this building! I’m no stranger to libraries; I think I was issued my first library card before leaving the maternity ward. But this week’s column is not about Kendall Young, his wife, or the legacy they left with the endowment for the library.

I want to introduce you to another of Our Neighborhood residents, Miss Charlotte Crosley.

I wrote of her father, George W. Crosley, a few weeks ago; he was an amazing person that all of Iowa is proud of.

Like father, like daughter …

Charlotte was born in Webster City in 1871, the third of four children to Colonel Crosley and his wife, Edna Risdon Crosley. Charlotte grew up here and, in 1911, became the assistant librarian under our first library director, Edward Burgess.

When Burgess retired in 1930, Charlotte became acting head librarian for two years. She served as head librarian until her retirement in 1945 and as historical librarian afterward.

Numerous newspaper accounts tell of her organizing groups for discussions, lectures, school tours; just about any kind of opportunity to share her passion for Webster City, its citizens and history.

Each time I visit the facility, I get the same kind of feeling from the current staff. I’m one who asks plenty of questions about most anything, except where to find something (it’s a guy thing, I suspect). When I start wandering, staff will kindly ask if they can help me; so refreshing.

I will say, as one who researches military history primarily, one of her accomplishments stands out. Charlotte compiled complete histories on all those who served from Webster City in the two World Wars.

When I read this, I thought it must be genetic. Her father, Colonel Crosley, was commissioned by Iowa’s governor after the Civil War to perform the same task for the state. It took him several years to finish the six volumes that make up this tremendous and well-organized collection.

At the end of this work, Charlotte was alongside, helping her father and learning invaluable knowledge. She put it all to good use later when she performed her similar task.

I’ve had the joy of reading dozens of newspaper articles about Miss Charlotte Crosley and her work at the library and for the people of Webster City.

Now that I’ve browsed a bit of the material on hand there, I might just bring a “Reserved for That Guy” sign to put on one of those comfortable chairs, bring in a footstool and settle right in for the long haul.

Hopefully, I’ll have to stand in line because I’d love to challenge all who live here in Webster City to visit our Library … often.