Countryman, Gratia A. (Gratia Alta), 1866-1953

Gratia A. Countryman was born in Hastings, Minnesota, November 29, 1866, the daughter of Levi N. and Alta Chamberlain Countryman. She graduated from Hastings High School in 1882 and from the University of Minnesota in 1889. Shortly after graduating from the University she joined the staff of the Minneapolis Public Library. In 1890 she was head cataloger, and in 1903 she was made head librarian, succeeding James K. Hosmer. In 1918, Gratia Countryman adopted a son, Wellington. Aside from her work as a librarian, Gratia Countryman was active in many civic and social organizations, including the University of Minnesota Alumni Association. In 1932 she received an honorary M.A. degree from the University of Minnesota. She was president of the American Library Association in 1934. She retired from the Minneapolis Public Library in 1936 and died in Duluth, Minnesota, in August 1953.

From the guide to the Gratia A. Countryman and family papers., 1861-1953., (Minnesota Historical Society)