News release from Milton Library Foundation

Over 300 people gathered to celebrate the Milton Library Foundation’s (MLF) Seventh Annual “Literary Gala”, which was a huge success as they netted over $75,000. The Gala was held at the Seaport Hotel, Boston on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 and benefited from one of Boston’s most influential authors, Ben Mezrich, as he spoke to the Gala guests. “The evening exceeded our expectations,” explains MLF president Herbert Voigt, “each gala has been a unique event with this one becoming our largest achievement to date. We extend a very sincere ‘thank you’ to each and every one of our guests for joining us and helping us raise much-­-needed dollars.”

This annual Gala raised dollars to support the Milton Public Library’s early literacy program for children. In addition, proceeds from the gala will help expand the library’s collections of e-­- books, traditional printed books, and Blu-­-ray DVDs, and will also support literary and cultural programs throughout the year. “The Foundation’s support of our collections and programs helps extend the library’s services to a broad cross-­-section of the community, we are fortunate to have such a strong pool of leaders and corporate supporters behind us,” says Philip McNulty, Milton Public Library’s Director. “The total raised was truly amazing, even during these difficult economic times,” he added.

The Milton Library Foundation, created a decade ago, is a volunteer group that raises funds and builds public support for the Milton Public Library. This Gala began with a special VIP “A Culinary Affair” Reception that featured local celebrity chefs including the Seaport’s Rachel Klein, Ashmont Grill’s Chris Douglass, Alba Restaurant’s Stephen Coe, Abby Park’s Tony DeRienzo, and Savin Hill Bar + Kitchen’s John Norton. The main event included a dinner dine-­- around, a silent and live auction that led guests to raise their paddles high to give more donations to the Library. “A special thanks to our generous sponsors, guests, and to all who made this an unforgettable event. The Library is truly appreciative for the support that it received from the Milton community,” said Gene Boylan, one of the event’s co-­-chairs, along with Milton residents Anne Collins, Tom Petersen, Jeannine Reardon, Herb Voigt, Tom Waye, and Aisha Saunders. Tom Waye adds, “…The Milton Library Foundation will forever be impacted from the fabulous fundraiser we experienced at the Seaport hotel! Thank you!”

The highlight of the night was when Ben Mezrich as Milton High School students, invited as special guests by MLF, listened in awe. The Gala ended with dessert and a book signing reception. AJ Williams of Creative Events produced the event. Visit our facebook page for event details and for further news as it happens: www.facebook.com/MiltonLibraryFoundationLiteraryGala

Here are some photos of the event courtesy of Cheryl Richards Photography. Please click on an image for a larger version.