Library seeking items for time capsule

VW independent staff/submitted information

As part of The Brumback Library’s 125th Anniversary celebration and Van Wert County’s America250 commemoration, community organizations are invited to help tell the story of Van Wert County in 2026 through participation in the newly announced Van Wert County time capsule.

The project originated through a partnership with local Navy Club Ship 726, whose members envisioned a community time capsule that would preserve a snapshot of life in Van Wert County for future generations. The time capsule itself was designed and built by students at Vantage Career Center, transforming the idea into a lasting community project.

While The Brumback Library will serve as the permanent home and caretaker of the capsule, the project is intended to represent the people, organizations, institutions, businesses, and community groups that make Van Wert County unique.

The capsule will be sealed during the downtown Van Wert Fourth of July celebration and will remain at The Brumback Library until it is opened during the library’s 150th Anniversary celebration in 2051.

“We want this capsule to capture the story of our community as it exists today,” Brumback Library Director Nellie Schmidt said. “This is an opportunity for organizations across Van Wert County to share something meaningful about who they are, what they do, and the role they play in our community.”

Organizations throughout Van Wert County are invited to submit one item for consideration for inclusion in the time capsule. Examples may include photographs, publications, programs, promotional materials, commemorative items, or other artifacts that help tell the story of the organization and the community in 2026.

To ensure the capsule reflects a broad and representative snapshot of Van Wert County, submissions will be reviewed based on available space, historical significance, and their ability to contribute to the overall story of the community. Submission forms can be picked up at The Brumback Library or emailed to those who request them.

Submission guidelines

• Open to Van Wert County organizations, businesses, schools, government agencies, churches, nonprofits, civic groups, and community organizations
• One submission per organization
• Items should represent the organization and its role in the community in 2026
• Items must be appropriate for long-term preservation
• Items must be no larger than 8.5 inches tall by 17 inches wide by 5 inches deep

If unsure about size eligibility, contact The Brumback Library.