The Joplin Public Library would like to thank the Kiwanis Club of Joplin for facilitating the donation of a replacement statue “Two Kids on Bench” by Max Turner after the original statue was stolen from the front of the Library nearly a year ago. The beautifully detailed, two-tone solid 100% American bronze statue is a whimsical rendition of two children reading a storybook and was a celebrated part of the Library landscaping. 

While an arrest was made quickly by the Joplin Police Department, the original statue was never recovered. The loss was felt by the community as a whole. The Kiwanis Club donated the original statue, and took the lead on procuring a replacement statue.  Along with monetary contributions by the Kiwanis Club, major contributions were made by James and Barbara Hicklin and David and Debra Humphreys. In addition to facilitating the donation, the Kiwanis Club will also generously be providing insurance on the replacement statue.

The new statue was installed on May 15, thanks to the hard work of the Joplin Parks and Recreation Department. A dedication ceremony was held Monday, May 20, at the Joplin Public Library.