We are here thanks to those who have come before us.
Prior to 1971, the Saginaw Public Library delivered library service to the Frankenmuth area via its bookmobile. In the spring of 1971, the Frankenmuth Women’s Club spearheaded a campaign to form a library in the community. They were instrumental in garnering the support of the City Council and the residents of Frankenmuth. The library was operated as a department of the city of Frankenmuth.
James E. Wickson and his wife, the former Meta E. Link contributed most of the funds for the building construction through the Wickson-Link Foundation.
Wickson Memorial Library opened in 1974. The original building was 5,000 square feet and the collection contained 6,500 items.
The Meta E. Wickson Children’s Wing and the Arno and Caroline Mossner study were built in 1986.
The second floor and the community room were added in 1998. The entire cost of the construction was raised through donations from foundations and individuals. With this addition, the library encompassed 14,400 square feet and held more than 45,000 items.
In 2008, the Frankenmuth City Council and the Frankenmuth School District collaborated to form the Frankenmuth James E. Wickson District Library. The formation of the district allowed for equitable and secure library funding spread across the Frankenmuth School District boundaries. The District Library Board became autonomous and was increased to eight members; four appointed by City Council and four appointed by the School District. Library Board members were : Charlie Nickless, Sue Piesko, Carol Lenard, Ron Bell, Tom Pepera, Lisa Roethlisberger, Dan Wortman and Richard Meyer. Library Director was Mary Chasseur.