In 1983 the public library published Clear de Road: A Virgin Islands History Textbook written by Roger Hill and Illustrated by St. Croix artist, Elroy Simmonds.  This project was a part of a cultural heritage project called "Emancipation a Second Look, sponsored by the Virgin Islands Bureau of Libraries, Museums and Archives and funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities.  The textbook project was funded by the Heritage Studies Program of the U.S.Department of Education.  Simmonds' illustrations depict the cultural perspective of St.Croix through history.  The originals of these illustrations did not survive hurricane Hugo.  The book, heavily demanded as a public school textbook,  now out of print, remains a treasure for young students to tap.

In the mid 80's artist Beverly Rosen painted a special work and gift to the library, with literacy as its theme; that large painting which hangs on the southwest wall in the lobby of the library also survived hurricane Hugo.  A.J., local artist who uses the streets of Christiansted as his gallery often donates pieces of his work to the library, they are held in the Caribbean Collection. Bob Brown, a former St.Croix resident, artist, Friend of the library and founding member of a St.Croix artist's guild, produced the mahogany library sign which hangs over the front door of the library.  He also produced the line drawing of the FWPL used in the masthead for this column.  The first art exhibit staged in the library following is reopening after hurricane repairs in 1995, was that of Dr. Robert Vaughn.  Bob's exhibit of digraphs depicting local scenes and people attracted a large audience. Utilization of digital technology is exemplified to a high degree in his work which is preceded by numerous photographs donated to the library, including its dedication ceremony.

As we approach National Library Week in this, the year 2000, we give pause and appreciate the richness of the relationship between local artists and the FWPL and realize how important their role has been in the history of the library.  All have been generous and overly supportive of the library.  As have those who have donated pieces of art.

             The St.Croix Art Exchange, and idea originated by La Vaughn Belle, a "FWPL Kid", a Columbia grad and an excellent artist, will get its start during National Library Week at FWPL. Her work will also be exhibited. The project, hosted by the FRIENDS of the FWPL has a goal which is to continue to transform the library into a place that is rich in literary, art and cultural resources.  It will coincide with  'LIVE at the Library 2000,'  a project which according to past ALA President Sarah Ann Long, "...engages writers and readers, artists and audiences in helping libraries present cultural programs that can truly build-and rebuild-America's communities".  The FWPL project ask each artist to donate a piece of artwork that relates to either the literature, education or the history/culture of the Virgin Islands.  In exchange for this donation artist will receive space to exhibit artwork during National Library Week, April 9-15, 2000.  Each donation will become a part of the a permanent collection that will be enjoyed by thousands of children and adults who utilize the library.