The Art of Chair-ity: Auction to aid Atascadero Library

A benefit to help raise the $2 million needed to expand the Atascadero Library will auction off exclusively designed children’s chairs Saturday.

More than two dozen local artists used the theme of their favorite story or fable to illustrate a chair. The $6 million library expansion project would double the library’s size, boost space for public meetings, youth programs and a computer lab, and add several parking spaces.

Wendy Rogers cleared the space in her gallery to make room solely for the artists participating in the benefit. Artwork from the contributors will be on display along with the chairs, said Rogers.

“That way people can get the context of the artists too,” she said.

Since 1988, Friends of the Atascadero Library has raised about $800,000 — mostly through used book sales — for design, construction and other costs. The city has raised an additional $200,000, and county supervisors have committed $3 million in matching funds.

The nonprofit Friends of the Atascadero Library is now seeking community support to raise the remaining funds.

The Art of Chair-ity Gala is being held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Red Tree Gallery, 5850 Traffic Way, in Atascadero.

Tickets are $45 each or 2 for $80 and are available at the library, the Red Tree Gallery and through ARTS Obispo. Call 466-7935 for more information.