Jewel Schweitzer's Gift Provided a Library for the Future
Two significant events occurred in the library district recently, one that saddens us, the other a cause for celebration. And both involve the same beloved neighborhood library, the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch.
Jewell Schweitzer, who died on April 4 at the age of 97, was instrumental in the 2016 renovation of the Brentwood Branch Library. She donated $1.2 million to the ReNew Brentwood Capital Campaign, adding critical fuel to the $2.5 million campaign.
As Library Foundation members explain, supporting the Springfield-Greene County Library District was enough for Jewell. She supported many other causes in Springfield, never seeking notoriety for any of it. In fact, foundation members say Jewell had to be convinced to add her name to the Brentwood Branch Library.
She was delighted when she got to cut the ribbon and reopen the branch on Jan. 7, 2017. She told us during her first tour it was “nicer than I ever imagined,” and she remained pleased her namesake would be a lasting gift to the community.
“Although it was easier for her to say ‘Yes’ to donating money than to allow any kind of publicity, the Library is honored to carry on her name and her passion,” said Library Development Director Melissa Adler.
Jewell’s generous gift helped make possible another achievement. The Schweitzer Brentwood Branch, designed by Dake Wells Architects, has been awarded the Silver LEED certificate, representing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The Final Certification Review was completed by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Certification represents the best in energy and water conservation, indoor air quality and environmentally friendly, cost-saving buildings.
Schweitzer Brentwood’s redesign met multiple standards including stormwater design and control, light pollution reduction, water-efficient landscaping and water use reduction, improved energy performance, reuse of the existing structure, management of the construction waste (much of it recycled), use of regional materials, lighting and daylight views, low-emitting construction materials and thermal comfort.
We have Jewell Schweitzer, along with the many other donors, to thank for providing a sustainable building and a library for the future.
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