by Frank Schroth

It was quite an evening for the Milton Public Library. The Milton Library Foundation hosted their annual fundraising event at Lombardo’s and several hundred turned out to demonstrate their support for the community institution. The evening featured a talk by renowned author Tom Perotta, a “Fund a need” auction in support of technology, and a tribute to Andrea Gordon. Ms. Gordon, a professional librarian, longtime trustee of the library, and founder of the Library Foundation is the first person to be so honored at this event. 

Gene Boylan, member of the Library Foundation, introduced Ms. Gordon and spoke to her contributions. Deborah Felton read a proclamation on behalf of Senator Brian A. Joyce, who could not be present (due to senate business, not the world series, she was careful to note), in gratitude for and acknowledgment of her contributions to the library, and the healthy, vibrant community center it has become.

Ms. Gordon in brief remarks modestly said, “I really didn’t do that much.” She took the opportunity to credit the people she worked with. “This team had the single minded determination to turn this library around.”  Gordon was referring to the rebuilding effort that had failed initially. But it was Gordon who brought the team together and Boylan stated that it was Gordon who urged that take “another swing of the bat.” And so they did. Gordon called out Marion McEttrick who was a selectmen at the time for her strong support in the effort. “She held my hand and I held hers.  .  . it was very tough.”

The crowd made more than one standing ovation to recognize Ms. Gordon and demonstrate their thanks to her. As Boylan succinctly said, “You have done so much for our library”.