Former Vernon library director to be memorialized in bronze

A sculpture honoring a former director of the Vernon Area Public Library will be unveiled during a ceremony in April.

The piece will memorialize Allen Meyer, who died in June 2008 after a battle with cancer. The bronze sculpture by artist George Lundeen, called "Life's Lessons," will depict a child reading on a bench, officials have said.

Invitations have gone out for the event, set for 2 p.m. April 17 at the Lincolnshire facility, but it will be open to the public as well.

The sculpture will be located in front of a bank of windows along a sidewalk near the main entrance.

"Our friends, staff and board members who were fond of Allen will have a little place to give Allen's memory a nod every time we walk in the library door," library board President Jane Berman said.

The effort was organized by the Friends of the Vernon Area Public Library community group, which supports library activities. It collected more than $15,000 in donations to pay for the installation.

"The sculpture reflects Allen's legacy of warm and professional librarianship here at Vernon," Berman said. "Its unveiling is an important milestone to this library community, especially to the Friends of the Library who took time and care to select just the right tribute to Allen."

No public funds will be used on the project, library Director Cynthia Fuerst said.

Meyer was the library's director for 20 years. He had joined the library as a children's librarian in 1985.

Fuerst succeeded Meyer. She sees Meyer's influence throughout the building, from the carpet and other physical features to the staff - most of which was hired on his watch.

"He put together a fabulous team," Fuerst said. "They're in place and still carrying out his vision for library services."