Skip to main content

About Our Library

The mission of the Wakarusa-Olive, Harrison Township Public Library is to select, acquire and organize materials in a variety of media that record man’s knowledge, ideas and culture.  This variety of media/formats shall be such that access to the information will be readily available to any member of the library community.  The collection is developed to meet the educational, professional, as well as, the recreational needs of the community.  Special emphasis within the collection is placed on the educational needs of preschoolers, school-aged children and adults, thus supporting the community with life-time learning opportunities.

Stained Glass Window

A colorful stained glass window featuring a pastoral scene with birds, a barn, trees, and an open book in the foreground.

The stained glass window located above the circulation desk was designed to represent the different aspects of our town and why we are distinguished as a community.  These are the things that make us unique and at the same time alike and able to form a community.

The window was designed by Bo Inthivong, a community member, manufactured by Kaleidoscope of Lafayette, IN, and financed through memorial donations.

Explanation of the Symbols:

  • An open book is the key to knowledge and information.
  • The horse and buggy reflect the Amish and Old Order Mennonite communities in our area.
  • The white church symbolizes the backbone of our community that influences our town and our lives.
  • The maple trees represent our unique celebration of the annual Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival.
  • The barn is a testimony to those who work the land and supply our families with food.
  • Three butterflies spring from the open book symbolizing the freedom to use the knowledge gained to become whomever you want.
  • The pink and white lily represents the Asian culture that flourishes within our expanding community.
  • Sunset rays touch every corner of the design joining the many elements and cultures representing our community.
  • The white dove at the top and center of the design symbolizes peace and is a reminder of deceased loved ones, who founded this town and helped shape and influence our lives and community.