Have you heard the news? The downtown branch of the Rockford Public Library, which opened in 1903, is set to be demolished.

Affixed to the building were a series of mosaic murals that were created by Rockford high school students back in 2000 to commemorate the new millennium.

In an effort to save them, Susan Hall, the organizer of that mural project, is raising $28,000 to remove the murals from the library and eventually move them to the Riverfront Museum Park on North Main Street.

Helping Susan save the murals is Rockford resident and organizer of Focus Rockford, Brian Wallheimer; he says "Helping save the library murals is right in line with the reason we started Focus Rockford. The murals are a part of our city’s history, and I hope our efforts can help preserve them for many generations to come."

To raise the money needed, picturesque scenes from notable locations and hidden gems around Rockford will be on display at the first Focus Rockford Photo Competition Exhibition from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at Prairie Street Brewing Co.

Over 90 entries were submitted for the contest but only 12 were selected; those photos will be framed and put on display and available for purchase through a silent auction. Calendars featuring all 12 photos will also be available for purchase.

For more information, visit www.focusrockford.com.

Here are just a few of the entries you will see at the exhibition.

 

More From 96.7 The Eagle