Stinson Memorial Public Library receives Jeffris Family Capital Campaign Grant

Stinson Memorial Library, a small town public library and an international architectural treasure, was awarded a Capital Campaign Grant at the end of August through the Jeffris Family Foundation. The grant was awarded for $250,000 with a two to one fundraising matching requirement over the next three years. After the fundraising period, the library will complete $750,000 in restoration projects to the building.

When driving by Stinson Library, you’ll see a rough cut limestone building rising out of the landscaping, with stained glass clerestory windows surrounding the upper rim of the building. The inside of the building shows historic features such as fused wooden beams, geometric designs, and terrazzo staircase. The building, while needing extensive restoration, has stuck true to the Prairie Style architecture in which it was designed.

The library was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 for national architectural significance. Its architect, Walter Burley Griffin, was one of the leading designers in Prairie Style architecture and went on to famously design structures internationally. Griffin has a strong architectural following based in the Midwest, Australia, and India.

Stinson Library had previously received a Heartland Fund Grant through the Jeffris Family Foundation in 2024. Their support, the library was able to complete a comprehensive study of the property, building composition, and design, which gave us a comprehensive Historic Structure Report to utilize in restoration, planning, and upkeep of the building. The library was noted to be in overall fair condition, though immediate issues need to be addressed, which is what the Capital Campaign funds will be designated to address.

Over the next three years, the library will raise $500,000 towards the grant matching requirement. The total $750,000 raised will allow for much needed restoration projects to be completed.

The Jeffris Family Foundation mission is to aid in the preservation and restoration of Midwest architecture and historic sites. Stinson Library was awarded the grant based on the significance of its historical legacy.