Library celebrates new History Wall

BLUE RIVER: Community members gathered at the O’Brien Memorial Library Saturday, Sept. 12, to celebrate the completion of a new History Wall highlighting the story of the library and the Blue River community.

About 25 people attended the noon celebration, including State Rep. Darin Harbick and Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch.

The History Wall was the result of more than a year of work by a five-member volunteer team: library board member John Witte; volunteer Deb Casey; local historian Margaret Beilharz; board president Connie Richardson; and local graphic designer Alan Work.

Beginning in the spring of 2025, the group brainstormed the layout, selected historic photographs, and researched, wrote and edited the material. Work provided graphic design expertise and helped guide the project from its early concepts through completion.

A donation from Witte and Casey paid for the high-pressure laminate panels used for the finished display. After the panels arrived at the library, Work and his wife, Nancy Holzhauser, installed them on the History Wall.

During Saturday’s celebration, Richardson shared the story of Frances O’Brien and the library, while Beilharz discussed Blue River’s history. Audience members added their own memories and historical perspectives during the presentation and question-and-answer discussion, contributing to the story of the McKenzie River community.

The celebration concluded with cupcakes donated by Shelly Pruitt of Soft Peaks Cakery.

The History Wall can be viewed during regular library hours. O’Brien Memorial Library is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 7 p.m. Wednesdays.