City Dedicates South Branch Library Mural

City Dedicates South Branch Library Mural

Published on October 09, 2024

Calling it "a celebration of the people in the neighborhood," Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and community representatives today dedicated a new mural on the west side of the South Branch Library, 2675 South St. The mural is designed by Lincoln artist Chloe Burgett.

"This new mural by local artist Chloe Burgett represents civic pride, celebrates a love of reading, and illustrates the importance of our public libraries in the lives of our community members," Mayor Gaylor Baird said.

Burgett's design was selected from 37 submissions through a competitive process in August and September. Community members helped paint the 24-by-10 foot mural, which was completed in early October.

The piece was selected by a community panel that included representatives from the City of Lincoln, the Lux Center for the Arts, and the Country Club Neighborhood Association. The mural was made possible through a $10,000 grant from the Country Club Neighborhood Association, with all administrative costs covered by the Lux Center. The generosity of those two organizations covered all expenses of the project.

Joining Mayor Gaylor Baird at the dedication were Burgett; Ryan Wieber, Lincoln City Libraries Director; Joe Shaw, Lux Center for the Arts Director; Mary Monahan, Country Club Neighborhood Association; and City Councilmembers Sändra Washington, Bennie Shobe and Southwest District representative Justin Carlson.

Burgett is an artist and children's book illustrator who lives in Lincoln with her husband, Seth, and their cat, Pencil. She said the mural is inspired by the wonder and discovery of reading, and the front porch culture of the Near South neighborhood.

"If you look closely, you'll find little nods to the surrounding area woven into the design. These details are my way of celebrating the neighborhood's charm and character, and I hope they spark a sense of recognition and pride for everyone who passes by," Burgett said.

Shaw said that when the Lux Center began installing murals in 2021, the organization thought they would appear only in the University Place neighborhood. With the South Branch project, the group's work is spread throughout Lincoln.

"We are so pleased help facilitate public art and to make it a center piece of what we do, along with outstanding arts education," Shaw said. "Give us a wall, and we'll find a way to make it a beautiful, lasting work of art that enriches the space and connects people."

Monahan said the mural project has been months in the making and is a testament to what can be accomplished through collaboration.

"What makes this mural even more special is the way it reflects our neighborhood's unique character and spirit. We are thrilled to see this vision come to life, and we hope it inspires a sense of pride and joy every time someone visits the library," Monahan said.

Director Wieber said that public art like the mural is more than just decoration - it builds community and invites conversation.

"This mural serves as a reminder of the power of reading, lifelong learning, and the vital role that libraries play in enhancing the quality of life for our neighborhoods," Wieber said.

For more information about Lincoln City Library events, visit lincolnlibraries.org.

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