Glenwood-Lynwood Public Library Unveils New History Wall Display

The Glenwood-Lynwood Public Library History Wall brings together the library’s foundational artifacts to preserve its origins for the community. The display centers around the bronze building plaque dedicated to the late Charles J. Klaass, accompanied by historical photographs capturing the facility’s early days.

From Senior Center to Library Wall

The relocation of the bronze plaque came after Library Board Member Linda Tatum connected with Lucy Klaass, the widow of Charles J. Klaass. According to Tatum, the widow requested that the plaque be moved from its previous location at the John H. Blakey Senior Center directly to the library, noting the immense time and effort her late husband invested in establishing the institution.

Following the request, Tatum completed the necessary legal responsibilities to secure the plaque’s transfer.

History is important always. The more you know about any history, the more that you can support it and be happy about it.
— Linda Tatum, Library Board Member

Library Director Brian Vagt noted that framed photographs documenting the original porta-structure building were already in the library’s possession. Staff centralized those images around the newly relocated plaque to form a cohesive visual timeline of the library’s past.

When Tatum initially approached him about bringing the plaque to the facility, Vagt welcomed the addition. “I said, yeah, we would love it. It’s a piece of history,” Vagt recalled.

Preserving the Past to Showcase the Present

Library leadership plans to preserve the new installation permanently. The project has already sparked momentum for a companion display designed to bridge the gap between the institution’s earliest days and its current operations.

This upcoming exhibit will map out both the past and present of the library, illustrating the full scope of growth since the facility operated out of its original 1986 porta-structure.