Stratas of Time Water Feature

Copper Queen Library Annex, Bisbee, Arizona

Built around a water collection and storage tank, this water feature was designed to highlight the layers of local history of this high desert community, from the prehistoric through Native occupation, the mining era and modern times. In an area of limited annual rainfall, this fountain recycles precious water to and from the tank, which is visible behind it. Commonly used local building materials such as brick, block, stone, sandstone were used. Potshards, bones, tools are all incorporated. The Copper Queen Library Annex houses the Library’s many educational programs as well as the Bisbee Science Center. The 142-year-old Copper Queen Library was named the Best Small Library in America in 2019 and is a finalist for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The Stratas of Time Water feature is another example of the Library’s forward thinking approach to art and education.