CORNING, N.Y. (WENY) -- Mary Lu Walker was known locally as a singer and song writer who also loved her local library system. on Monday, March 13th, she received a special honor at the Southeast Steuben County Library. 

“Mary Lu Walker was a children's singer, songwriter and volunteer.  Here at the Southeast Stueben County Library, she was a regular in the community. Two years after her passing, her name is immortalized in the newly renovated children's room here at the library,” said Pauline Emory, library director. 

Walker was a library volunteer for over 20 years, and people who knew her say she was a person who always had the community on her mind.   

“She was front center of being a volunteer, supporting the library. One of the things she would do on a weekly basis is come, and sing and play guitar to infants, toddlers and preschoolers and she would go with us to schools to sing in classrooms,” said Emory. 

The children's area underwent a six-month long renovation process costing more than $686,000. Improvements included more seating, wheel chair accessibility, lighting that can be adjusted for those with sensory needs and a change to the acoustics.   

“We now have front facing shelves so little people can flip through, see the covers. It is much more appealing and just gets them excited about reading,” said Emory. 

Mary Lu Walker performed throughout the Southern Tier before she passed away in 2021, and now her legacy will live on throughout the local community through the library system she devoted so much of her time to.