The City of Houston, Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, Houston Public Library and Houston Public Library Foundation have unveiled a new statue honoring former First Lady Barbara Bush and her enduring commitment to literacy.

The dedication ceremony took place Friday, October 9, at Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza, located between the Jesse H. Jones Central Library and the historic Julia Ideson Building in downtown Houston. Created by artist Chas Fagan, the statue serves as a lasting tribute to Mrs. Bush and the literacy cause she championed throughout her life.

The ceremony brought together representatives of the city’s library system, literacy organizations and the Bush family to recognize Mrs. Bush’s legacy and the continued importance of literacy in the community.

Speakers included Neil Bush, co-founder and chair of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and son of President George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush; Sandy Gaw, library director of Houston Public Library; Julie Finck, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation; and Nick Sawicki, executive director of Houston Public Library Foundation.

Fagan also attended the dedication, which was followed by a reception inside the Julia Ideson Building.

The statue adds a permanent tribute to Mrs. Bush at a location dedicated to books, learning and public access to information. Her legacy continues through literacy initiatives and organizations working to expand educational opportunities for children and families.

The dedication also highlights the role of Houston’s public libraries and community partners in supporting literacy and providing residents with access to educational resources.