North Greenwood Library Unveils New Community-Inspired Mural
Published on February 27, 2026
"Open Book Policy" by Ashley Cassens
A new mural now brightens the exterior of the North Greenwood Library, transforming the building into a colorful landmark that reflects the neighborhood’s history, cultural identity and love of reading.
Located in the heart of North Greenwood, the mural was commissioned through the city of Clearwater’s public art initiative, which supports projects that enhance public spaces and reflect community identity. The installation coincides with the citywide Art Oasis Mural Festival, though the focus of this project remained on creating a work designed specifically for the library and its surrounding neighborhood.
Rooted in Community
Library staff saw the project as an opportunity to create an art piece that honors the library’s history while recognizing the neighborhood’s cultural contributions. The mural was made possible through a donation to the Clearwater Public Library System from the Clark-Turner Trust.
“A mural transforms the library from a civic building into a vibrant community landmark,” said Library Director Jennifer Obermaier. “It signals a place of learning and creativity and reinforces that the library is a place for everyone.”
Strengthening Public Art in North Greenwood
“The city of Clearwater has made a strong commitment to expanding public art, and murals are a cost-effective way to bring high-quality art into public spaces,” said Amber Brice, Arts and Cultural Affairs manager. “With the recent adoption of the North Greenwood CRA, which includes dedicated funding for public art, we are excited to focus these efforts in the North Greenwood neighborhood. We hope the library mural strengthens community pride and encourages engagement with the library.”
Artist Chosen Through Competitive Process
Following a public art call that drew submissions from regional artists, library staff reviewed portfolios, selected three finalists and invited site-specific proposals. The design by regional muralist Ashley Cassens was ultimately chosen.
Cassens is known for her bold use of color and focus on community themes. Her proposal reflected North Greenwood’s history and the people who shaped the library. She worked closely with library staff to incorporate elements that connect the institution to the surrounding neighborhood.
A Tribute to Reading and Storytelling
The mural centers on the idea that reading opens doors. Its imagery highlights the ways books encourage exploration, imagination and personal growth, qualities long associated with the North Greenwood Library and the entire Library System.
The design also includes visual references to storytelling and the lasting connection many residents have with the library.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
Alongside these broader themes, the mural incorporates historical references tied to North Greenwood.
Among them is Christine Wigfall-Morris, Clearwater’s first African American librarian, whose leadership helped shape the library’s early years. Her legacy continues through the Christine Wigfall-Morris African American Collection, housed at the North Greenwood Library and recognized as the only dedicated collection of materials on Black history and the African diaspora in Pinellas County.
The mural also honors Jenny Rush, a former co-worker remembered for her warmth, her love of reading and her affection for dogs.
A quote attributed to Frederick Douglass, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free,” serves as a central theme of the artwork, reinforcing the idea that reading is linked to opportunity and self-determination.
Plans are underway to engage visitors through a companion coloring sheet and a numbered scavenger hunt that highlights key elements within the mural.
The project is expected to strengthen neighborhood pride and further establish the library as a welcoming space for residents of all ages. By bringing public art directly to the building, the mural adds another layer of meaning to a space that has long served the community.