Daniel Boone Regional Library

The Columbia Public Library was designed by Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates and completed in 2002.

The Columbia Public Library is the proud recipient of two of the inaugural Columbia Image Awards: the Inspiration Award for “outdoor art that enhances a structure”; and the Striking Structure Award for architecture. The Columbia Image Awards were created by the Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau to recognize business and institutional leaders whose vision, imagination and dedication to the community have resulted in places and spaces that create a positive impression of our city.

“Cypher” by Albert Paley

The Inspiration Award recognizes the two large yellow sculptures collectively known as “Cypher” by renowned artist Albert Paley. “We believe the arts are important to our citizens and our local economic vitality. We’re very pleased that we were able to facilitate the commission and installation of ‘Cypher’ and sincerely appreciate this recognition,” said DBRL Associate Director Elinor Barrett. An anonymous donor provided the funds for “Cypher.”

Regarding the Striking Structure Award, Barrett said, “It’s been said that a library is a gift the community gives itself and a great library is a reflection of a great city. We tried to create space in this library that can be used in a variety of ways: by individuals for independent study and reflection, small informal study and discussion or social groups, and larger civic events.”

Image award sculptures

Presented September 10, the honors were accompanied by one-of-a-kind sculptures by glass artist Susan Taylor Glasgow. Her work is included in the permanent collections of the Carnegie Museum, Chrysler Museum, Museum of American Glass and several others. She was also the subject of a feature in American Craft magazine this fall.