MILWAUKEE — A new mural called 'Heights Dream Library' located on 57th and Vliet is meant to showcase the importance of literacy.
Fred Kaems is the artist behind the artwork, he said he hopes people look at it and smile as they are walking by.
"I believe art brings a certain kind of life to a community," said Kaems.
Fred started painting three weeks ago but the building has been there much longer, since 1996, building owner, Dan Schley has looked at the walls and envisioned a colorful creation highlights books, libraries, and the community coming together.
"I hope will encourage kids to come along and imagine what kind of book they would want to write," said Schley.
"I hope it inspires someone else to do something good," said Kaems.
Each of the titles on the book was submitted by local residents some are sponsored and dedicated to loved ones, like local pharmacists, George Horkey.
"Most of them are dedicated to a grandmother a teacher a librarian," said Schley.
Other titles have a playful approach.
"The titles are what people would dream up, what is your dream? What kind of book would you be excited to find?" said Schley.
Schley said he hopes the bookshelf continues inspires the community to dream big.
"What would a title, 'You Can’t Beet Vliet," what would that be about? Just use your imagination," said Schley.
Fred is also working on a mural in Menomonee Falls. To see more of Fred's work on Instagram follow him @fred_the_artist or click here to visit his website.
To learn more about the mural, click here.
