By Rachel Galvin
Usually, they are the ones giving to others. On April 7, volunteers at the Doreen Gauthier Lighthouse Point Library had a chance to receive. They were honored at a special luncheon held at the Lighthouse Point Yacht & Racquet Club. Library director Christy Keyes summed up the theme of the day with a Cicero quote: “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” On each table sat a centerpiece made from individual flower-filled vases the guests could take home. And the library, well, it is not just about the books, but really about the people who take the time to care for those who come in and read them, the people who were honored this day.
The event began with a prayer from Rev. Mark Andrews. Mayor Glenn Troast also spoke, saying that the library, which now celebrates its 50th year, has offered something for everybody, but the most important part of the library is the volunteers.
“As we say over and over again, we couldn’t run the library without you,” he said, noting some of the great events the library has held year-long, and commenting that they are in the process of installing a new air-conditioning system.
In addition to Christy speaking, Doreen Gauthier got up and said a few words. They both outlined some of the accomplishments, including the money raised through events and book sales.
Christy said, “We raised $10,000 from two book sales. This helps pay for events like this and goes to special programming at the library.”
She added, “We always need books. We go through the donations and if we can, we add it to the collection. If it is the same as something we have, but in better condition, we swap it out. If it is something we can’t add, it will go to the book sale. The volunteers run the whole thing. We have a sale twice a year.”
Nicholas Louis was honored for being 15 years on the board and Susie Gordon was recognized for serving for 20 years at Friends of the Library.
Christy also recognized the teen volunteers, who were able to get out of school and attend for the first time at this event. There were a few in attendance this day, but 18 teens volunteer overall. They created bookmarks for all the guests to keep and recycled old children’s books by creating cut outs for a special wreath and other décor.
The volunteers work at the library because they love it.
Ron Lavergne, who volunteers for many groups in the area, said, “No other place has had so many volunteers. I love going there, doing research and enjoying the quiet.”
Janice Larit said, “The library is a wonderful resource for the Lighthouse Point people. I decided to become a volunteer. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet the neighbors. It is run so great. Christy does a fabulous job. I can’t say enough about it.”