This larger-than-life bronze, located in front of the public library, includes a variety of classic novels as well as favorite books of several Artesia Public Schools students. The students’ favorite books were selected by an essay contest and the children in the monument represent the students with the winning essays.  The statue symbolizes the foundation the community has in learning, education, literature and our youth. The concept was designed by Mark Ashley, a volunteer and design committee member for Artesia MainStreet.  The sculpture was created by Beverly Paddleford of Lander, Wyoming and unveiled in July 2015.