Sycamore Public Library is gearing up for a month of expression through art.

History of Illinois libraries

Eastern Illinois University developed the traveling art exhibit “Art and Architecture in Illinois Libraries,” currently on display in the Sycamore library.

“Most people don’t know we’re a Carnegie library,” said Larry Zevnik, head of adult services at Sycamore Library. “These types of libraries have very interesting architecture in them. In the late 1800s, Andrew Carnegie donated millions of dollars to go toward the founding of public libraries. It was his way of bringing libraries to small towns.”

Designed to highlight the artistic heritage of Illinois libraries through a series of photographs and artwork, the exhibit is open for public viewing until March 23. The exhibit is being displayed on 10 separate panels on four different stands in the center aisle of the library.

“Sycamore’s a small town,” Zevnik said. “We’re trying to provide events for people.”

Tree of Knowledge

Library patrons can also take advantage of a three-week program at the library. The first class was last Saturday, and the remaining two classes are scheduled to take place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. this Saturday and on March 17. Participants will work together to create a “Tree of Knowledge” structure made of recycled books.

“The tree sculpture ties in with the art and architecture display,” Zevnik said. “We’ll be building it out of recycled books, papier-mache, glue, tree limbs and other various materials.”

The program is free and open to all ages.

Save the history

Sycamore library is working to create awareness of the preservation of DeKalb and Sycamore’s historic buildings.

“We’re bringing in a preservation specialist to speak on the matter,” Zevnik said. “She’ll lecture on what kinds of buildings are determined to be historic in nature and how to save them.”

The special presentation, “Historic Preservation: Conserving our Architectural Heritage Through Preservation, Restoration and Architectural Salvage,” will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

More information can be found at http://www.sycamorelibrary.org.