To the Editor:

The Altamont Free Library’s 11th Annual “I Love My Library” Gala will take place on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Altamont Village Community Room. This year’s theme will be “Bound With History and Friendship.”

The gala is by far the library’s most significant fundraiser each year as we seek to sustain an increased demand for services in our greater community.

At this year’s gala, we will be honoring Sally Dague and Marijo Dougherty, two women who meaningfully impact the library, as well as our community.

Sally epitomizes what it means to be a true friend of the library. She has been one of our most consistent supporters and is a former long-time board member and board president. Sally has worn many hats, including organizing and assisting with the library’s finances and historical records; volunteering for every fundraiser, including the gala, book sales, Election Day bake sales; and has even served as our chief window washer!

As curator of the Altamont Village Archives, Marijo has transformed the collection; mounted 16 exhibits; and was integral in bringing into being the newly installed “Museum in the Streets,” which is displayed throughout the village. She also spearheaded the Arcadia Series Altamont book with Keith Lee and another book on the stained-glass windows of Altamont, which was created for the village's quasquicentennial celebration. Marijo’s promotion and preservation of our community history has been an asset to the library.

We welcome those who are interested honoring Sally and Marijo to join the gala’s Honorary Committee. Forms for this purpose are available at the library.

Please also consider joining us at the gala for an evening of fine food — including dinner catered by Elegant Touch and an array of sumptuous desserts — and the ever-popular silent and live auctions. Reservations for the event will begin in early January 2018.

If you have an item to donate for auction (gift certificates, artwork, vacation rentals, specialized services, gift baskets, etc.) or would be interested in soliciting donations for the gala on behalf of the library, please contact Library Director Joe Burke by phone at (518) 861-7239 or online at director@altamontfreelibrary.org.

The Altamont Free Library board and staff wish to thank our patrons, volunteers, and other supporters for their continued commitment to our library.

Christine Carpenter, president

Altamont Free Library

Board of Trustees