Welcome to The Ames Library Virtual Tour
Entry Level
When entering the front doors of The Ames Library you are greeted by The John Wesley Powell Rotunda. Located in the rotunda is a life-size sculpture of John Wesley Powell, created by local artist Rick Harney.
The quote from our Founder's Gate, 1857 is stenciled in the frieze:
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“
Founder's Gate, 1857
We stand in a position of incalculable responsibility to the great wave of population overspreading the valley of the Mississippi. Destiny seems to point out this valley as the depository of the great heart of the nation. From this center mighty pulsations for good or evil must in future flow, which shall not only affect the fortunes of the Republic but reach in their influence other and distant nations of the Earth.”
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This service is maintained by The Ames Library. Please contact us with any problems or suggestions. Last revised: August 31, 2006 |