One of the most eye-catching features inside the new New Glarus Public Library is not a shelf of books or a bank of computers. It is a handcrafted donor recognition wall that tells the story of how the community came together to help make the new library a reality.

Located inside the library, the wall recognizes the individuals, families, businesses and foundations whose financial support helped fund the project. But the wall itself is also a story of local collaboration, craftsmanship and community pride.

Library Director Amy Trumble said the project began with a search for professional donor wall companies. The proposals they received would have cost tens of thousands of dollars. Instead, library leaders looked closer to home.