Times of Change
Reorganization
In 1939 the 48th General Assembly reorganized the State Library facilities by combining the State Library, which had been a reference library, with the Library Commission. The name of the Traveling Library was changed to the State Traveling Library and the fuctions were:
- Extension and supervision of library services in Iowa.
- Loan of books to residents of Iowa.
The Library Commission and the State Library Board were abolished and in their place a three man ex officio board appointed, consisting of the Governor, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Also, an appropriation of $69,100 annually was awarded to the Traveling Library, an increase of $6,280.
County Library Services
The State of Iowa's library services were still struggling to reach the majority of its citizens. Only those living inside the city limits are entitled to free cards in that city's library, and because approximately half of the people of the State were living in rural areas, they had no library services except for the services of the State Traveling Library. In 1947 the 52nd General Assembly passed an Act to allow counties the ability to form and maintain a free public library open to the users of all the inhabitants under proper regulations. Some county libraries elected to also use a bookmobile to reach more patrons effectively. The bookmobile traveled on a schedule and would meet in a fixed public area of the community. The arrival of the Traveling Library and its librarian was an event of importance in a small community, and people would take advantage of the opportunities to have the latest books, almost delivered to their doors.
Reorganization, Again.
In 1956 the 56th General Assembly passed a new law that provided for a board of five members to guide the library back to its important role of Iowa State Traveling Library. The law provided for a director to create library standards, survey public library services, and to implement a state-wide plan for public libraries, schools, organizations, individuals, and specific extension sections. With this event, more than 9,000 books were discarded and replaced with newer, more relevant materials. The reorganization required staff additions, changes, and reassignments. Updates were made to the library building to allow for the collection updates. Services were added, revised, or discontinued. Along with the reorganization, the Iowa State Traveling Library Board voted in 1957 to strengthen its efforts and employ fieldworkers. Fieldworkers were used to give technical assistance and advice to any libraries requesting services.