Together, We’re Building Something Beautiful

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, The Backyard at the Library is nearing the finish line. Every gift, big or small, has helped bring this special space to life. We are deeply grateful for the heart behind each donation.

In recent weeks, some of those gifts have carried an especially profound meaning.

Following the devastating accident that took the lives of five young people in our community, several families and friends have chosen to honor their memory by giving to The Backyard project. We are humbled to be included in the obituary of 8-year-old Bradley Lund and to receive memorial contributions made in his name and in honor of the other children lost: Ainsley Johnson (8), Kathryn Corley (7), Alma Buhnerkempe (7), and Rylee Britton (18).

These children were students in the Ball-Chatham schools. They were loved. They were part of our shared story. And while their loss is immeasurable, we are honored to be a place where this grief, love, and hope for the future can coexist.

Bradley’s obituary described him as a joyful, imaginative second grader who loved superheroes, playing outside, and curling up with his family for storytime. That spirit: curious, gentle, and full of wonder, perfectly captures what we hope The Backyard will be. This is not just a physical space. It is a welcoming community hub where connection, discovery, and peace can flourish.

To every person who has made a donation in memory of these children, thank you. You have made this project more than a construction effort. You have helped create something deeply meaningful.

Together we are #ChathamStrong,

The Chatham Area Public Library Foundation

Friends of the Chatham Area Library District (EIN: 37-1208455) a 501(c)(3) organization and your gift is tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. No goods or services were received in return for your gift. Friends of the Chatham Area Library District is not subject to the Public Funds Investment Act (20 ILCS 880/20) which places limitations on the types of investments in which a public agency may invest funds.

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