Nancy Richey and her collaborators provide an outstanding and nostalgic view in “Images of America: Barren County,” and the people who have contributed to the society of that community over the 20th century. Because this book comes in the form of a photographic essay, the time frame has limitations to the early days of commonly used photography (early 20th century) and the author ends the presentation with photos from the 1960s. Primarily the pictures focus on the years between 1920 and 1950, and they provide outstanding views of Barren County from multiple perspectives.

She divides the book into five chapters. One focuses on the county seat of Glasgow. She then moves on to consider the people of the county. Third, she focuses on traveling across the county to the smaller but vital communities that form the county. She provides a set of photos on the educational systems in Barren County until the mid-20th century, and she finishes the essay with pictures that describe social systems and structures in the county, work, recreation and religion.

One of the strengths of this excellent essay lies in the commentaries she offers to accompany the photographs. Her concise history of the county and city introduce the structure she has developed through the five chapters.

In short, this small book can provide excellent source material for many types of studies. But, finally, it is a picture of our past and the roads taken during many years to develop the present. We can all benefit from and be grateful that the authors have provided this lasting tribute to this community.

— Reviewed by Cecile Garmon, Leadership Studies coordinator, Western Kentucky University.

At 7 p.m. Thursday at the library on WKU’s Glasgow Campus, Nancy Richey will discuss the photographic history of Barren County. A book signing and reception will follow. For more information, call 745-6911.