Grand Island Public Library to Host Holiday Open House for the Community

Grand Island, Neb. — The Grand Island Public Library will host a Holiday Open House on Monday, December 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the library, and the event will be free and open to the public.

Guests will enjoy live music from the Hastings Symphony String Quartet, featuring Jeana Peterson and Amy Brooks on violin, Marla Rischling on viola, and Christa Speed on cello. The evening will also highlight the restored “Willow” sculpture by renowned artist Harry Bertoia. The sculpture was originally donated to the library in 1974 through memorials and family contributions in honor of Col. William O. Peak, Mrs. Bernice Peak, Barbara Peak and Mrs. M. H. Allen. Mrs. Peak was Mrs. Allen’s daughter.

Harry Bertoia was born on March 10, 1915, in San Lorenzo, Italy, and immigrated to the United States at age 15. His lifelong interest in art began in childhood, and he went on to become a United States citizen in 1946. During his career, Bertoia received numerous architectural and artistic awards for his public sculptures.

The restoration of the Bertoia sculpture, along with the new pedestal and protective enclosure, was made possible by the Byron and Jan Moore Trust, given in their memory. Many library patrons have fond memories of seeing the sculpture at the library and are excited to see it restored and on display once again.

During the Holiday Open House, visitors are invited to enjoy the library’s festive decorations, browse holiday movies for family viewing, explore Christmas cookbooks full of seasonal recipes and check out holiday-themed books for all ages.

The Grand Island Public Library Foundation is generously providing light refreshments and other support to make this special evening possible. For more information, please contact Library Director Celine Swan at [email protected] or by calling (308) 385-5333, Ext. 3101.