Roots of Knowledge

  • The design features images of three intertwined trees, each representing an aspect of the Library's relationship to its users. The background of the composition includes scenes of Sunset Park, the Brooklyn neighborhood in which the mural is located.
  • These alert participants review their drawings during the public share of their designs.
  • The students have completed their research and are now in the fabrication process, many sporting their caulk guns like Charlie’s Angels.
  • Two students use glass cutters to cut the mosaic glass tiles into perfect shapes.  This takes precision, attention to safety precautions, and patience.
  • While on a fieldtrip, the group poses for a great team picture.
  • Here is a detail of the word “Connect” at the bottom of the first tree.  The roots of the tree transform into plugs, symbolizing connectivity.
Brooklyn Public Library Roots of Knowledge .wmvYoung Brooklynites Put Finishing Touches On Summer Mural Project - NY1.com.mp4

Project Description

Twelve youth accompanied by many volunteers and led by artists Belle Benfield and Sophia Dawson partnered with the Brooklyn Public Library to create this mosaic installed on the walls of the Brooklyn Public Library. “Roots of Knowledge” highlights the role of the Brooklyn Public Library as an invaluable resource for free education. The design features images of three abstract trees, each representing an aspect of the Library’s relationship to its users. The words “Connect, Learn, and Explore” highlight how individuals can connect with their community, learn and educate themselves, and explore the vast resources of knowledge the library encompasses. The background of the mosaic features Sunset Park, the neighborhood in which the mural is located.

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Project Info

Location: 54th Street and 5th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11220

Fun Facts

Research
According to the National Institute for Literacy, low literacy is strongly related to crime. Seventy percent of all prisoners in the United States fall into the lowest two levels of literacy.
Fun Fact
The Brooklyn Public Library is the 5th largest public library system in the United States.
Impact
Through participating in this project, the youth learned first hand how to use the library’s resources for research. All received library cards and were empowered with the tools for self-motivated free education.