04/08/2026
On May 28, 2021, Library Director Amy McDermott reached out to the office of Iowa’s State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) regarding a hole in the Onawa Public Library’s roof, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Public funds are being utilized for the repair, which has escalated into a complete re-roofing project. A contractor has been hired, and the SHPO recommended that a preservation architect be consulted to review the contractor’s re-roofing plans. McDermott noted additional concerns regarding the 1908 Prairie Style Library.
Berggren Architects conducted an assessment focusing primarily on the roof, with any remaining time used to evaluate the library's exterior and other specific concerns.
It was suggested by Berggren Architects that during that day’s noon lunch, library board members could be invited for an impromptu review of the day’s activities and initial findings. The assessment report emphasized maintenance issues rather than extensive renovations, although the damaged roof and water elimination in the basement were identified as high priorities, the latter being costly.
The assessment of the roof was broken down into three categories: the shingles, the roof deck, canopy roof and recommendations. Time did permit and the exterior masonry was assessed. It too was broken down into three categories: brick masonry, decorative tile, granite masonry, limestone masonry, and recommendations.
Additionally, drainage recommendations were included due to noted damage and deterioration. The final examination of the exterior wood encompassed windows and doors with respective suggestions. The report concluded with prioritized recommendations and phased corrective measures, considering the remaining useful life of the assessed materials.
