Friends of Brentwood Library Dedicates New Bench

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On Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. the Friends of Brentwood Library (FOBL) will dedicate a new bench for patrons at the front of the Library. Commissioned as a part of the Friends of the Brentwood Library’s 40th anniversary, the dedication of this one of a kind bench coincides with National Library Week, which is April 9-15. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

Brentwood artist and Friends member Valentine “Lee” Adams conceived and created the abstract design. He is known for his metal collages composed of used and repurposed materials. His unique perspective helps him re-design utilitarian items to look like musical instruments, animals, and human torsos. His pedestal sculptures were displayed at the library in May 2016.

In speaking about the design of the bench, Adams says, “In contrast to the straight-across design of traditional park benches, the curved bench allows groups of patrons to sit and converse without having to lean forward to see each other’s faces. As an artist, it has been my challenge to create something worthy of the grounds of the magnificent institution it will inhabit, a sculpture that reflects value libraries have in our communities as well as the communities’ libraries create.”

“I have created this sculpture with that intention. Over time, I would hope that this artwork continues to turn eyes and provoke the imaginations of the library patrons. Still just as much, I would hope that the sculpture grows a nostalgic patina of recollection as a place where ideas occurred, thoughts were shared and great books were read. This is the same patina that runs deep in the brick and mortar of the Brentwood Library. As a Brentwood resident and library patron, I have seen this institution grow and evolve to best serve the changing needs of its community. This sculpture is among many things my way of saying thank you that it has existed and will continue to exist.”

The installation of the metal and wood sculpture will be a remembrance in honor of the members and volunteers of FOBL. Since its establishment in 1976, the Friends of Brentwood Library has raised over $1 million dollars for the library to date.

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