Heartwarming Support
By Pat Rutkowski | New Britain Public Library Director at September 22, 2023 | 6:45 pm | Print
Fundraiser, party, celebration: our Literary Libations was a success. There was a larger attendance and plenty of enjoyable conversation. It was a lovely evening at Trinity on Main; a beautiful place to hold our event. Previously, Literary Libations had been held at the library. Our majestic building provides a great after hours setting but our generous public hours provide a challenge to set up for the evening event without disrupting library services and staff. And this year, when planning started, there was a possibility that work was going to be done on our parking lot which could have impacted parking. Sometimes we have to try something different. We did and it worked.
The success of the event was due to our board committee – MaryAnn Varga. Ann Anderson, Ron Jakubowski , Vira Riley, Deidra Ieradi. They brainstormed, planned, arranged, organized the event and solicited sponsors. It was their work that made the event go so smoothly. We also had some extra helping hands at the event: Paulette Fox, Ann Speyer and Ashwinee Sadanand. There was plenty of delicious food. Ken Griffen entertained with his ever amazing piano playing. New Britain’s Poet Laureate, Mike “Chief” Peterson, kicked off the evening and shared some of his powerful works. There was the opportunity to meet and converse with16 city connected authors with books in an array of genres and subjects: children’s books, history, novels,
e-books, memoir, inspirational, crime and mysteries. We are thankful for the support of several community sponsors who gave generously: the American Savings Foundation, Creed Monarch, TD Bank, and Sir Speedy. We also received many well wishes and donations from those who were unable to attend.
This past weekend, we were at Main St. USA talking about library services. The weather was fantastic. Board members Aimee Pozorski, Bud Volz and Ann Speyer helped work the library table. We saw lots of new faces who were interested in what was going on at the library. Heartwarming was all the library users who stopped by to chat. It was wonderful to hear about the programs they have attended and enjoyed. We handed out lots of program information and color changing rulers. And as always it was a great opportunity to answer questions. How much does a library card cost? (It’s free). How do I get a library card? (Bring a picture ID with your current New Britain address). What programs do you have for little kids? (Time for Tots). Where can I find information on the history of New Britain? (Local History Room). What museums are in your museums pass program which provide discounts or free entry? What movies are coming up? Any new programs? (Salsa dance class in October and the Homework Center has reopened for middle and high school students.) When is the next Friends’ of the Library Book Sale? (Oct 12 – 15). This is the best part of library work – connecting with people, sharing library services and hearing how much people value their library.
