Can You Help Me Solve the “W.A.W. Bench” Mystery?

We have all seen it a million times.  A large concrete bench right outside the entrance to Oneonta's Huntington Library.  The pedestal is made out of three large initials: W.A.W.  On top (the seat) you will find an image of an open book, a flying bird and three building blocks spelling out W.A.W."

Any clues?