Above / This photo depicts Nichols Library when it first opened at 110 S. Washington Street, standing today as a landmark to represent the city’s focus on literacy, education, culture, philanthropy and entrepreneurship.
M. E. Bell, Architect Telephone Main 1079
Suite 83 and 84 Dexter Building.
84 Adams Street Chicago, April 21, 1898
Mr. D. C. Wallace,
Secretary, Nichols Library
Naperville, Ill.
Dear Sir,
As requested by the Board at its last meeting, I visited and inspected the new Library building at Naperville and have to report that I find that it is now fully completed in accordance with the plans and specifications and that the work had been carefully and well done by the contractors and I respectfully recommend that the building be accepted and the Contractors paid their finale payment in accordance with their Contract. In regard to my own bill, I will thank you to present to the Board my original proposition which was to be a % on the cost of the building which will include the Heating Plumbing and lighting and fixtures. I do not make any charge for the plans of the book cases, which plans I have made and figures are now being taken on them. If the Board will send me check for the balance due I will be much oblique. I shall be glad to know when you dedicate the building.
Very truly yours,
M. E. Bell
Images and photo were contributed courtesy of local historian Bryan Ogg, Curious Curator columnist for Positively Naperville. Among many stories that aim to connect the community to its significant past, Ogg wrote “That name rings a bell,” a column about the nationally renown architect who designed the first Nichols Library, named for its benefactor James L. Nichols.
