Big Lake Library set to get Pooh-themed mural

BIG LAKE — Patrons at Big Lake library will notice a lot more color inside the building. Willow-based artist Scott Thompson is putting on the finishing touches of a large mural over the archway leading into one of the facility’s main sections.

Librarian Jo Cassidy said the library commissioned the wildlife artist Scott Thompson, who assembled the picturesque, three-dimensional rendition of a Winnie the Pooh scene. It spans 25 feet and welcomes visitors to the library’s children’s section. Cassidy said the mural ties into the library marking its 15th year at its current location. On July 1, the library celebrates 29 years as an official borough entity.

“We commissioned Scott but he did so much extra,” Cassidy said. “He was very, very generous.”

Cassidy said Thompson did most of the work at his Willow Creek Studios location and brought the pieces to the library late last week. From there, he assembled it adding touches to complete the depiction.

Thompson and his wife Joan own Willow Creek Studio at mile 69.5 of the Parks Highway.

Thompson does not limit his work to two-dimensions. He started carving wood and soapstone with hand tools more than three decades ago. His work includes chainsaw carvings along with snow and ice sculptures. Thompson began painting later in his career mainly to add to his carvings. An avid outdoors enthusiast, Thompson’s mural brings the Pooh wood’s scene to life.

“Overnight, things were transformed,” Cassidy said. “The new mural ties into our summer reading program—‘Build a Better World’”.

The Thursday evening unveiling also tied into the library’s annual community summer picnic which also kicked off the library’s reading program. The eight-week program, sponsored by the Big Lake Library Advocates, ties together youth involvement in the library and a fun activity over the summer. Activities are scheduled each Thursday at 1 p.m. through July 27 and run the gamut from a presentation on search and rescue dogs to pet shows and talent shows to arts and crafts. An adult program is also offered, Cassidy said.

This year, participants have the opportunity to win one of three Kindles. Two of those will be given to children earning “chance tickets” for extra reading. Those tickets can be used for a chance at a Kindle or bike, Cassidy explained.

“So the more you read, the more chances you have to win,” she said. Cassidy said the third Kindle will be awarded to a child who completes one of three tasks—details are available at the library checkout counter. “You can do all three (tasks) for one ticket each giving you three extra chances to of winning.”

For more information on the reading program, contact Big Lake Library at (907) 861-7635.