FROM THE DESK OF THE STATE LIBRARIAN...
On June 7th the City of Laconia celebrated the Centennial of the Gale Memorial Building, which houses the Laconia Public Library. The public library traces its roots to the Meredith Social Library founded in 1803 in Laconia. In 1878, the sum of $1,500 was appropriated and six trustees were elected to oversee the operation of the library. In 1903, with the generous help of Major Napoleon Bonaparte Gale, the Gale Memorial Library Building was built using granite, hand-carved wood and stained glass. For one hundred years it has been a landmark in Laconia. On Saturday, June 7th under a white tent, the trustees and library staff along with guests celebrated the Centennial of the Gale Memorial Building. Robert Selig, Chairman of the Board of Trustees served as Master of Ceremonies for the event. In attendance were Mark Fraser, Mayor of Laconia, U.S. Senator John E. Sununu, Executive Councilor Ray Burton, and State Librarian Michael York.
Programs at the library, as part of the Centennial Celebration, included children's story times and local authors. Plans for a new addition to the building are underway. A selection of an architect is expected soon.
Sherm Pridham Retires
On May 27, 2003, 250 people turned out for a gala celebration at Yoken's Restaurant to wish Sherm Pridham, Director of the Portsmouth Public Library for 30 years, a wonderful retirement.
The speakers (roasters) included city officials, library community colleagues, and lifelong friends. Sherm took some ribbing about his work at the library and was a good sport.
Sherm said he plans to travel, garden, and stay connected to the library world through his mentoring activities with the New England Library Leadership Symposium
-Michael York, State Librarian |
