Nora E. Larabee Memorial Library

Goal: $10,000.00

Specific Need

Welcoming the Future, Honoring the Past: Beautifying Nora’s Place

The Nora E. Larabee Memorial Library has stood as a beacon of learning, connection, and civic pride for 120 years. Now, with the foundation and exterior envelope lovingly restored, we turn our attention to the trim and cornice that crowns this legacy building.

Nora’s Place is no ordinary structure. Built in 1907 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a rare example of Classical Revival architecture in rural Kansas. Commissioned by the Larabee family—visionaries in both industry and philanthropy—the building features architect Charles E. Shepard’s design of Corinthian cornices and ornamental gargoyle rainspouts. Employing an architect to design buildings was rare in the early 1900s.

In 2021, we launched the Preserving Nora’s Legacy campaign. Thanks to generous donors and grants, we’ve restored the foundation, front steps, sidewalks, roof, windows, electrical system, blinds, landscaping, flagpole, and more. But buildings of this age require ongoing care—and beautifying the exterior is our next step.

Sorely in need of paint and repair, the cornice and trim restoration is more than a preservation project—it’s a reaffirmation of the values that shaped our town: education, philanthropy, and civic beauty.

Mission

Mission statement: The Nora E. Larabee Memorial Library is a strong community partner providing programs and services that bring people together, foster creativity, and encourage lifelong learning. We preserve our storied past, enrich present lives, and prepare for an ever-changing future. Vision statement: To be the welcoming heart of our community where all come to learn, discover, create, and connect.

Nora’s Library is a living space, not just a historic one. A few of the services we offer:

• Free Wi-Fi access
• Medicare enrollment assistance
• Summer reading programs and book delivery to daycares and nursing homes
• Bilingual and large-print materials
• Homeschool support and collaboration with regional libraries

Profile

The Nora E. Larabee Memorial Library has stood tall for 120 years—now it’s time to make her exterior as beautiful as the stories inside. We need to restore the cornice and trim of this historic gem to create a space that’s welcoming, inspiring, and worthy of the memories made here every day.

If you believe in the power of libraries to transform lives, we invite you to contribute your time, talents, or donations. Together, we can ensure that Nora’s Place continues to inspire, welcome, and uplift for generations to come.

Your gift helps us:

Beautify the exterior
Enhance placemaking for all ages
Preserve a National Historic Landmark
Inspire lifelong learning

Let’s honor the past and welcome the future—together.