Westfield Library releases local artist Wilner's limited-edition card

(December 12, 2024) The Westfield Memorial Library has collaborated with local artist Jenn Wilner to design a “limited-edition” library card. The card, which depicts imagination and the wonders of reading, is available now and free to anyone who signs up for a new library card.

Only 500 of these custom cards will be issued, and they will be available for a limited time only. Existing cardholders can purchase one as a replacement for $2.00, but all replacement cards will have new library card numbers.

The artist has also donated an original painting of the artwork, which will be on display at the library, after framing is complete.

According to Wilner, who was the library’s first Artist-in-Residence in 2024, “This painting, created exclusively for the library, is meant to touch upon the joy of reading and all the different written types of genres found in books. The figure in the image reminds us that the powerful force of reading combined with our imagination can take us to places beyond our everyday lives.”

A BFA graduate in Communications Design at the Syracuse University School of Visual and Performing Arts, Wilner had a 30+ year career as a graphic/web designer.

Since leaving the corporate world, she has been involved with multiple artistic activities in Westfield. She created a five-year Art Appreciation program for Tamaques Elementary School, with each presentation featuring a well-known artist or art movement with audio/visual aids and step-by-step project instructions and supplies.

Wilner’s artwork is displayed in many public spaces, including the Tamaques Park Pavilion, and a painting of hers is currently part of the Westfield Central Avenue Public Art exhibition.

“I was thrilled when I saw Jenn’s design for a custom library card,” said Library Director Allen McGinley. “One of the most fundamental roles of the public library is to ignite the imagination of our youngest visitors. And I thought Jenn’s piece captured this perfectly.”

This card is the second in a series of collaborations with local artists to produce limited edition library cards. The previous card was designed by fine artist Ricardo Roig.

Visit the library’s website at https://wmlnj.org/ to sign up for a library card and learn more about the library’s resources and programs. Visit the library at 550 East Broad Street to obtain a new or replacement card.

Library hours are Monday - Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday 1:00-5:00 p.m. The library will be closed December 24 and 25 for Christmas, open 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on December 31 for New Year’s Eve, and closed on January 1 for New Year’s Day.