West Bend library board approves musical garden on library grounds

The West Bend Community Memorial Library Board voted to authorize a permanent musical garden on the library grounds after a presentation from Karen Wysocki.

Karen Wysocki, a retired music teacher and board member of Roots and Branches, told the board the garden would include seven weather-tested instruments from Freenotes Harmony Park, accessible layout and programming for children and adults, and community-built elements such as a “piano pebble drum” constructed by local high school metal-shop students. “It will provide a more beautiful community by its colorful and inviting instruments,” Wysocki said. “The instruments are tuned to a pentatonic scale…so no matter what you play, it’s going to sound fabulous.”

Wysocki said Roots and Branches’ Leadership Committee selected the library site and that installation is expected in late spring or early summer, subject to fundraising and grant outcomes. She told the board Roots and Branches has applied for a grant from Ritzy Grantures and has secured at least one private donation; she said additional donors have expressed interest and that naming rights could be offered to help offset costs. She also said the vendor bolts a laminated songbook to one instrument and that replacements would be Wysocki’s responsibility if they are damaged.

Library Director Steve (last name in record: Steve) and Roots and Branches representatives discussed volunteer installation and community involvement. Wysocki described the instruments planned for the garden, including “caterpillar bells,” mushroom-shaped resonant drums, lily-pad bowls, color-coded chimes with a songbook, and a marimba-like instrument. She proposed benches and a layout that would allow parents to watch children from a small slope above the playing area.

Wysocki said maintenance requirements from the vendor are minimal and that the instruments are designed to be durable in outdoor settings. She also described additional community elements that could be added later—birdhouses painted by elementary students, and construction participation by shop classes or Eagle Scout projects.

Board member Barb moved to authorize the project; Joseph seconded. The motion carried on a voice vote.

Board members and staff said they will draft a memorandum of understanding between Roots and Branches and the library to capture roles and responsibilities for the installation and long-term upkeep. Wysocki said she will present an updated plan to Roots and Branches and return to the board as needed to report fundraising outcomes and a proposed installation timeline.

The board recorded its authorization in the meeting minutes; Wysocki will coordinate next steps with library staff and Roots and Branches.