Butler Memorial Library: A Living History

The story of Butler Memorial Library is one of generosity, civic vision, and enduring community spirit.

A Gift to Cambridge

In the late 1940s, the City of Cambridge received an extraordinary gift from U.S. Senator Hugh A. Butler and his relatives Frank and Maudlee Butler. Their wish was to provide the community with a permanent home for reading, education, and culture. Construction soon began on the library building, and on November 9, 1950, the facility was formally dedicated. A large open house followed on February 22, 1951, and the very next day—February 23, 1951—the first books were officially checked out under the care of librarian Mrs. Grace Newcomb.

The earliest years of the library set a tone that continues to this day. A founding board of trustees—Ray McKinney, O.C. Shoemaker, R.E. Kind, Mable Correll, and Zola Luther—helped guide the new institution, ensuring that it quickly became more than just a book-lending service. The library offered a gathering place, a learning hub, and even an auditorium that was soon put to good use. For example, in 1952, when St. Paul’s Lutheran Church was constructing its new sanctuary, its congregation used the library’s auditorium for worship services—a reminder that Butler Memorial Library was always meant to be a cornerstone of community life.

Growing with the Community

As decades passed, the library grew into its role as Cambridge’s cultural center. It steadily expanded its collections, offering not only popular fiction and nonfiction but also large-print titles, children’s books, audiobooks, and periodicals. In time, the library became known for its unique and practical lending services, including a cake-pan collection that residents could check out for special occasions—a small but memorable example of the library’s flexibility in meeting community needs.

The library’s mission has always been clear: to support lifelong learning and to serve as a hub of knowledge and culture. Over the years, it has provided safe study spaces for students, research support for families, and a welcoming environment for residents of all ages.

Preserving Local History

Beyond lending, Butler Memorial Library has embraced its responsibility as the keeper of Cambridge’s local history. Through partnerships with Advantage Archives, the library has digitized historic issues of the Cambridge Clarion and other area newspapers. These digital archives now allow residents and researchers worldwide to explore the stories of Furnas County from the late 1800s to the present, ensuring that Cambridge’s heritage remains accessible to all.

Innovation and Renewal

While proud of its roots, Butler Memorial Library has also adapted to modern needs. In recent years, it has invested in digital resources, technology upgrades, and flexible community spaces.

These improvements demonstrate the library’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring that it remains relevant to both young families and lifelong learners.

Today and Tomorrow

Today, Butler Memorial Library is more than seventy years old, but it continues to embody the vision of its founders. It is a place of connection—where children participate in summer reading programs, students complete research projects, entrepreneurs use digital resources, and neighbors come together for events. Its staff and board remain committed to expanding access to information, preserving community memory, and strengthening the cultural life of Cambridge.

The generosity of the Butler family laid the foundation, but it is the ongoing commitment of residents, librarians, and supporters that sustains the library’s role as a vibrant community hub. From its dedication in 1950 to its modern-day makerspace and digital library services, Butler Memorial Library stands as a proud symbol of Cambridge’s dedication to learning, history, and shared progress.