Scout Leader David Shaneyfelt has always been especially helpful said Coughlin, who also thanked his fellow Scouts, “Because without them there’d be no Scouts and no reason for going to the meetings!”
“Everyone knows the name Blanchard Community Library has meaning,” BCL Board Chairperson Linda Spink told the crowd, “but today the most important word is community.... without the community,” that volunteered to help in the renovation, “this would not be the library it is today.”
With such strong community support, Spink said BCL is “Growing and prospering. This is your library; become involved and support us,” including, “The best library staff in the world!”
Former Children/Youth Librarian Maureen Spencer was also on hand; Gavenman had worked 22 years for Spencer, until she retired and moved to Auburn. Gavenman always credited Spencer for being her mentor.
Gavenman, a library veteran of 36 years, told the crowd she was “So very grateful to the Optimist Club,” for selecting her as grand marshal for the 64th annual parade, this year themed “Christmas in the Library”.
Gavenman thanked many for their support, especially library patrons “For enriching my life in so many ways.... I can’t wait to see you at the library!”
During the open house, Spencer said, “I know how Ilene is and she’ll try to say I taught her everything she knows, but she was always wonderful all on her own!”
Spink said she was pleased at the strong turnout at the open house to see the improvements, “Due to our community, all those individuals and groups and businesses that stepped up.
“It is the community library and the community has pulled together to support the library”
