| Additional Information: | A 'site file' exists for this property. It contains additional information such as correspondence, newspaper clippings, or historical information. It is a public record and may be viewed in person at the Wisconsin Historical Society, Division of Historic Preservation-Public History.
1996- "Designed by La Crosse architect Otto Merman, this structure has operated as the North Side Branch of the La Crosse Library since its construction in 1942. The building incorporates numerous details associated with the Tudor Revival style, among which are its multiple, steep gables. In addition, the dominant front gable features the hallmark Tudor stucco and half-timbering decoration within a projecting, bracketed rectangular bay and peak. Directly below the front gable is a window with both leaded glass and small, square panes topped with a label hood and surrounding concrete trim. The entrance gable of the building features a wooden, double-door entry with surrounding concrete trim that includes a label hood and voussoirs, as well as a recessed space with the library branch name inscription. A small oriel window with diamond-shaped panes rests within the gable peak. The entire structure is roofed in slate tiles that resemble wooden shingles. The fine detailing of the library has remained unchanged over the years, as the structure continues to serve its original function."
- "La Crosse North/South Transportation Corridor", WisDOT ID #5991-04-00, Prepared by Heritage Research, Ltd. (1996).
2019: "The North Community Library was built in 1940, opened in 1941, in a Tudor Revival style described in the local paper as a “bungalow style structure architecturally designed so as to blend with its residential surroundings.” (La Crosse Tribune, 31 Dec. 1941). Facing Kane Street, the building is a one-story gabled ell design, with entrance in the corner between the front gable in the ell wing, created in its own gabled protrusion. It is built in brown brick with false half-timbering in the main front gable. Triangular multi-light windows and a small three-sided bay window in the upper entrance gable emphasize the Tudor features, as does the slate roof. The library was remodeled in 1992. Though the overall interior has retained its integrity, according to the La Crosse Public Library facility manager responsible for the remodel, these were the items that were updated or changed: The windows were replaced, but they were done in the same pattern as the originals, just energy efficient. The back entrance doors were replaced, as the wood doors had rotted. The current rear doors are metal, but in a similar style. The interior lighting was all replaced, but with period-appropriate style. The drinking fountain, which was originally in a nook, was removed and replaced. The original circulation desk was replaced. The HVAC and electrical was replaced, but the interior is overall intact with its original woodwork." |
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