Clara Louise Kessler performed by Pamela Devon Lovell

Clara Louise Kessler (1893-1968) Known for her life-long interest in books, songs, and children, Clara served as the head children’s librarian at Withers Public Library (today Bloomington Public Library) for 33 years. She was a huge promoter and supporter of literacy among Bloomington-Normal’s youth. A writer and poet herself, she compiled and edited the five-volume history Hometown in the Cornbelt 1900-1950, which recounts many stories and reminiscences from 132 citizens (including herself) of Bloomington-Normal and McLean County. Script written by Kathleen Kirk, performed at the Evergreen Cemetery Walk in 2015.