Chapel Hill library to feature children's book characters in stone

The new works of art by Todd Frahm will feature Aesop's tortoise and hare, Mr. Toad and the snake from the book of Genesis. The pieces were carved from 4,500-pound blocks of limestone. Kids will be allowed to perch, play and read on the sculptures, which also will serve as seating for adults, according to a press release. The sculptures celebrate the role of animals in literature.

An unveiling celebration is planned for 10:30 a.m., July 25. The morning begins with a fable-themed story time at 10:30 a.m. The Friends of Chapel Hill Public Library are providing limited edition coloring books illustrated by the artist. The library will have other related activities for kids. The statues will be unveiled at 11 a.m. Refreshments, including free ice cream from Maple View Farm and fresh baked cookies from the Siena Hotel, will be available.

Frahm has called the pieces "The Grand Intimate."

“The library is brimming with stories that feature delightful animal characters,” he said in a press release. “I chose these four because they’re frequently depicted in literature, and each has a pattern that could be embellished in the limestone.”

The library is at 100 Library Dr. in Chapel Hill.