Gift to library honors fan of books, children

12/31/2004

Rose Ann "Posy" Huebner beamed with joy as a collection of 13 pieces of art in honor of her late husband was unveiled yesterday at the main branch of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library.

The collection, a permanent addition to artwork in the Children's Library on the second floor, features pieces from nationally acclaimed illustrators of children's books. It was funded through a bequest from the estate of Mrs. Huebner's husband, Robert.

"I'm just so excited about it. It's wonderful," she said. "My husband just loved books and children, so this is just a great gift."

Mr. Huebner, retired chairman of the former Hardy & Dischinger Co. and a patron of cultural and community activities, died of cancer in May.

Along with being a generous donor to the library, Mr. Huebner championed the creation of the Blair Museum of Lithophanes at Toledo Botanical Garden.

Along with his wife, he also supported many arts, cultural, and community institutions.

The collection at the library on Michigan Street includes art by Will Hillenbrand, Wendell Minor, and Maryann Cocca-Leffler. Also unveiled were seven hand-painted snowflakes.

"It was a very fortunate day for the library when we met Bob and Posy Huebner," said Margaret Danzinger, deputy director of the library. "Posy knows that art can be powerful."

Nancy Eames, manager of the Children's Library, said artwork already displayed in the library would be included in the Robert L. Huebner Collection.

"I know this collection is going to grow," Ms. Eames said. "We have a lot of walls to fill."

The illustrations include pieces from the books Down by the Station; Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush; Trot, Trot to Boston; Cat, What is That, and two pieces from Bravery Soup.

About 70 people attended the unveiling ceremonies. Afterward, Mr. Hillenbrand, who is a children's author as well as an illustrator, read from Down by the Station.