Local artists were joined by Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and other city officials this morning to unveil a new mural on the west side of the Lincoln’s South Branch Library, 2675 South Street.
The winning design by children’s book illustrator Chloe Burgett, who lives in the nearby Near South neighborhood, was selected from 37 total submissions in September. In early October, community members helped paint the 24-by-10 foot mural. 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.
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.
Mayor Gaylor Baird said the mural is “a celebration of the people in the neighborhood” and “represents civic pride, celebrates a love of reading, and illustrates the importance of our public libraries in the lives of our community members.”
Lux Center Arts Director Joe Shaw said since they began installing murals in 2021, the organization thought they would appear only in the University Place neighborhood, of which several appear. With the South Branch project, the group’s work is spread throughout Lincoln.
Lincoln City Libraries Director Ryan 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.