If you’re at Central Library this weekend for the Wisconsin Book Festival or any other reason this fall, head down to the Children’s Area on the lower level to see Double-Deckerondack, a beautifully handcrafted seating area created by local artist and woodworker Tom Loeser in memory of longtime former Madison Public Library Director Barb Dimick.
Dimick began her long career with the library in 1979 at Lakeview, then became Central’s Children’s Services Librarian and eventually, supervisor of Children’s Services. She was named Director of Madison Public Library in 1995. During her tenure, she oversaw the construction and expansion of several branches, and ultimately the expansion and remodeling of Central Library before retiring in 2012. Throughout her career, she ensured community members’ free access to a robust collection of books and other resources. She believed in sharing knowledge and the love of reading with all.
Double-Deckerondack resembles the style of an Adirondack chair and was crafted from urban ash from a Madison park, as well as cherry and quarter-sawn white oak.
Loeser, a retired UW-Madison art professor who headed up the wood and furniture area from 1991-2020, has collaborated with the library in the past. He created numerous artistic seating areas in Pinney Library as well as Central Library.
The foundation is grateful to the library’s Bubble staff for working with Loeser to create this meaningful new piece to preserve Dimick’s legacy.