"Today, we gather to lay the cornerstone of the spiritual, cultural upbuilding of the institution - the foundation stone of the Joseph Krauskopf Memorial Library. In this, we substantiate the vision of our sainted leader, who willed that upon his death, his beautiful library with its thousands of books, its art objects and furnishings should be transplanted to the Farm School, and that out from it the cultural, refining, spiritual force of the life of the institution should be developed."

Herbert Allman,
Chairman of the
Joseph Krauskopf Building Committee
and future President of
the National Farm School
June 1, 1924

In his Last Will and Testament, Dr. Joseph Krauskopf wrote, "It is my hope and fervent prayer that some philanthropist may, in the near future, erect on the grounds of The National Farm School a Library Building, and so equip it as to enable it to meet the School's constantly growing needs."

Dr. Krauskopf's friends and followers responded to his wishes, and within a year of his passing in 1923, the cornerstone of the Joseph Krauskopf Memorial Library was laid. Throughout its history, loyal friends and benefactors have helped the Library meet its constantly growing needs. In the 1950's and 60's the Women's Auxiliary raised funds to enhance the collection. In 1969, the Harry Shapiro and Samuel Cooke wings were added to the original 1924 structure. In the 1980's, the Library's graceful Georgian exterior was complemented by the addition of the Hillman Family Garden. In 1997, the Arthur and Rita Poley Gallery of Delaware Valley College History was established.  In 2008, the Friends completed the Sesquicentennial Door, a new entrance to the library that commemorates the one hundred fiftieth anniversary of Dr. Krauskopf's birth.

The Friends' mission is to individually, collectively, and in an organized manner promote, support, and enhance the operation of the Joseph Krauskopf Memorial Library. A nonsectarian and nondenominational organization, the Friends of the Joseph Krauskopf Memorial Library welcome members who are interested in Delaware Valley College and are willing to support the Library in its quest to provide the entire college family and community with the best services and programs possible, including the collection of historical material of the college.