Anniversary Celebration - Ramapo Catskill Library System

Anniversary Celebration
Thank you
Ramapo Catskill Library System
for
50 years
of fostering
literacy and knowledge
throughout
Orange, Rockland, Sullivan
and southern Ulster counties.
Albert Wisner Public Library * Blauvelt Free Library * Chester Public Library * Cornwall Public Library *
Cragsmoor Free Library * Daniel Pierce Library * Ellenville Public Library and Museum * Ethelbert B.
Crawford Public Library * Fallsburg Library * Finkelstein Memorial Library * Florida Public Library * Gardiner Library * Goshen Public Library and Historical Society * Greenwood Lake Public Library * Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library * Highland Falls Library * Josephine-Louise Public Library * Liberty
Public Library * Livingston Manor Free Library * Moffat Library Of Washingtonville * Monroe Free Library
* Montgomery Free Library * Nanuet Public Library * New City Free Library * Newburgh Free Library *
Nyack Library * Orangeburg Library * Palisades Free Library * Pearl River Public Library * Piermont Library District * Pine Bush Area Public Library District * Port Jervis Free Library * Roscoe Free Library *
Rose Memorial Library Association
*
Sloatsburg
Public Library
* Suffern Free
Library * Sunshine
Hall
Free Library *
Tappan
Library * Thrall
Public Library
District of Middletown
and
Wallkill * Tomkins
Cove
Public Library
* Town of
Mamakating
Library District
* Tuxedo Park
Library * Valley
Cottage
Free Library *
Wallkill Public
Library * West
Nyack
Free
Library * Western
Sullivan
Public Library
*
Woodbury
Public Library
* Albert Wisner Public Library * Blauvelt Free Library * Chester Public Library * Cornwall
Public
Library
*
Cragsmoor
Free Library *
Daniel Pierce
Library * Ellenville
Public
Library
and
Museum
*
Ethelbert
B.
Crawford Public Library *
Fallsburg Library * Finkelstein Memorial
Library * Florida Public Library * Gardiner Library *
Goshen Public
Library
and
Historical Society * Greenwood
Lake
Public Library
* Haverstraw
King’s Daughters Public Library * Highland Falls Library * Josephine-Louise Public Library * Liberty Public Library * Livingston Manor Free Library * Moffat Library Of Washingtonville * Monroe Free Library * Montgomery Free Library * Nanuet
Public Library * New City Free Library * Newburgh Free Library * Nyack Library * Orangeburg Library *
Palisades Free Library * Pearl River Public Library * Piermont Library District * Pine Bush Area Public
Library District * Port Jervis Free Library * Roscoe Free Library * Rose Memorial Library Association *
Sloatsburg Public Library * Suffern Free Library * Sunshine Hall Free Library * Tappan Library * Thrall
Public Library District of Middletown and Wallkill * Tomkins Cove Public Library * Town of Mamakating
Library District * Tuxedo Park Library * Valley Cottage Free Library * Wallkill Public Library * West Nyack
Free Library * Western Sullivan Public Library * Woodbury Public Library * Albert Wisner Public Library *
Blauvelt Free Library * Chester Public Library * Cornwall Public Library * Cragsmoor Free Library *
Daniel Pierce Library * Ellenville Public Library and Museum * Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library *
The Board of Trustees of the
Ramapo Catskill Library System
proudly salutes
our member libraries
and
Friends of the Library groups
as we strive to serve the people
and organizations that have come
to depend on our library services.
We look forward to the future
with confidence.
Worthy of Trust Since 1892
341-5000
www.orangecountytrust.com
Member F D I C
RamapoCatskill
CatskillLibrary
Library
System
Ramapo
System
50thAnniversary
AnniversaryCelebration
Celebration
50th
Sunday,October
October25,
25,
2009
Sunday,
2009
TheInn
InnatatCentral
Central
Valley
The
Valley
Program
Program
SocialReception
Reception
Social
with Cash
Cash Bar
with
Bar
Congratulates RCLS on its
50th Anniversary
Welcomeand
andIntroductions
Introductions
Welcome
Master of
of Ceremonies
Ceremonies
Master
Mistral Trio:
Mistral
Ann Churukian
Churukian --oboe
Ann
oboe
Joanna Schroer
Joanna
Schroer- -clarinet
clarinet
Elisabeth Romano
Elisabeth
Romano- -bassoon
bassoon
IraSimon
Simon
Ira
Advocacy and
Chair
Advocacy
andFundraising
Fundraising
Chair
Opening Remarks
Opening
Remarks
Stephen L.
Stephen
L. Oppenheim
Oppenheim
RCLSBoard
Board President
President
RCLS
Dinner
Dinner
AwardsPresentation
Presentation
Awards
Patricia Soto
Soto
Patricia
Annual Meeting
Meeting and
Chair
Annual
andAwards
Awards
Chair
Member Library
of of
thethe
Year
Member
LibraryTeen
TeenProgram
Program
arYe
Member Library
of of
thethe
Year
Member
LibraryAdult
AdultProgram
Program
Year
Anthony J.J. Knipp
Award
Anthony
KnippLibrary
LibraryTrustee
Trustee
Award
HHonorable
onorable MMention
ention
GuestSpeaker
Speaker
Guest
40
DaChen
Chen
Da
New York
York Times
Times Bestselling
New
BestsellingAuthor
Author
Boosters
Barry & Lynn Skolnick
Ellenville Public Library & Museum
Howard S. Dallow, P.C.
Joanne & Stephen Sininsky
Muriel Fox
Pickwick Book Shop
Shirley D. Gordon
Thom Kleiner, Orangetown Supervisor
Victor & Susan Lopiccolo
Greenwood Lake
Library
Greenwood
LakePublic
Public
Library
Orange Library
Orange
LibraryAssociation
Association
Marian
Swope, Sunshine
Library
rian
Ma Swope,
SunshineHall
HallFree
Free
Library
HHarry
arry BBloomfeld,
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ClosingRemarks
Remarks
Closing
Robert Hubsher
Hubsher
Robert
Executive Director
Executive
Director
Thank you
you to
of of
ourour
RCLS50th
50thAnniversary
Anniversary Celebration.
Thank
to all
allthe
thesupporters
supporters
RCLS
Celebration.
Please enjoy
enjoy the
andand
we we
encourage
you to
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theJournal
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1
Congratulations
on the 50th Anniversary of the
Ramapo Catskill Library System
aarp legal services
corporate practice
library legal services
arts & entertainment law
elder law
litigation
commercial law
employment law
municipal law
bankruptcy
environmental law
personal injury/accidents
business law
environmental litigation
property tax grievance
foreclosure
guardianship proceedings
real estate
debtors & creditors
health care law
taxation/federal & nys
condos, hoas, co-ops
land use/zoning/planning
wills & trusts
Best wishes to RCLS on your
50th Anniversary
FRIENDS OF THE
PORT JERVIS
FREE LIBRARY
Jacobowitz & Gubits, LLP, is a diversified, full-service law firm engaged in
a wide range of specialties, united by a common principle, to deliver the
highest quality legal service for our clients. That principle has enabled us to
become the largest first-generation, non-merger law firm in Orange County.
Walden
Poughkeepsie
Monticello
845.778.2121
www.jacobowitz.com
2
Congratulations!
With Appreciation,
The Trustees of the
Mamakating Library
22 Mulberry Street, Suite 2A
Middletown, NY 10940
845-343-1481
www.fellp.com
Licensed: NY, NJ, PA, CT, MA, VT, RI
39
Congratulations RCLS
Amy Moulton
Sr. Account Manager, K-12/Public Libraries-NYC & Suburbs
GALE/Cengage Learning
27500 Drake Road, Farmington Hills,MI 48331
(800)877.4253 x 1720 (fax)248.699.8059
[email protected]
www.gale.com
For 50 Years of
Enlightened Service
Where community comes
together, Community is Key.
Harriet Cornell
At Key, we enjoy living and working in our
community for the same reasons you do – the
celebrated traditions, the recreational opportunities
and the company of others who share our dreams.
We’re proud to support so many programs that
help to bring people together for the common good.
Chairwoman,
Rockland County Legislature
225 Dolson Avenue, Suite 303
Congratulations!
from
Fran and Chuck Thomas
KeyBank proudly supports the Ramapo Catskill
Library System.
Congratulations on your 50th Anniversary
Celebration of service to your member libraries.
in memory of
Bob Thomas
Best Wishes on
your
Tuxedo Park Library
50th Anniversary
227 Route 17, PO Box 776
Tuxedo Park, NY 10987
Www.tuxedoparklibrary.org
®
(845) 351-2207
(845) 351-2213 (f)
[email protected]
key.com/community
Serving the citizens of Tuxedo since 1901
38
©2008 KeyCorp
3
Legal Planning
For Every Family
Congratulations to the
Ramapo Catskill Library System
Estate Planning
Estate Settlement
Special-Needs Trusts
Non-Traditional Families
Living Wills
Powers of Attorney
Formerly the Law Offices of
Barbara H. Cane
(845) 727-4000
www.canelaw.net
on your 50th Anniversary
Happy 50th Anniversary to all
of our friends at RCLS. Keep up
the good work.
Kyle & Jackie Dent
David Carlucci
“THE GUTSIEST LITTLE THEATRE”
--The New York Times
Town Clerk
Town of Clarkstown
www.clarkstownclerk.com
639-2010
CONGRESSMAN
ELIOT ENGEL
17th Congressional District
Paid for by Engel for Congress
7 Crickettown Road, Stony Point, NY
Tel. 845.786.2873
www.penguinrep.org
Congratulations to RCLS
from
The Friends of the
Moffat Library
Washingtonville
4
37
Congratulations from
the Friends of the Nyack
Library
P.N. Fire & Burglar Alarm Co., Inc.
SULLIVAN ORANGE COUNTY COUNTY
(845) 794-6133 (845) 343-7600 Call For FREE ESTIMATE
x 24 Hour Premises Monitoring
x Emergency Service with Radio Dispatched Vehicles
x Affordable Systems Installed by Trained Professionals
Steven L. Kaufman
President
49 YEARS RESIDENTIAL
& BUSINESS SERVICE
Grahamsville’s
Daniel Pierce Library
Proud to be a part of the
Ramapo Catskill Library System
Friends and Trustees
Building for the Future
Congratulations to the Ramapo Catskill Library
System for Providing 50 Years of Service
Best wishes from the Library
Board and Staff at the
PORT JERVIS FREE LIBRARY
138 Pike Street
Port Jervis NY 12771
Phone: 845-856-7313
Fax: 845-858-8710
Beverly Arlequeeuw, Director
36
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5
“Thanks for the Memories!
It’s been an interesting journey
to where we’ve come today.”
The Staff & Board
of the
Highland Falls Library
Celebrating RCLS
50 years of
Library Leadership
Cooperative Support
Dedicated Service
Congratulations Marian Swope
449 E. Main Street
Middletown, NY 10940
Ph: 845-343-5803
Fax: 845-343-8607
www.crwolfeheating.com
6
2009 Anthony J. Knipp
Trustee of the Year Award Winner
We were so lucky to have had the
chance to work with you!
~~~~~~~~~
Congratulations RCLS
For 50 years of exemplary service to
member libraries
~~~~~~~~~
From the trustees, staff, volunteers,
Friends Group, & patrons of the
14 Proctor Rd
557-6721
Congratulations
to the
Ramapo Catskill Library System
for 50 years of continuous and
outstanding service to the library
community. May you continue for
another 50 years plus another and
another.
The Rockland Coalition for
Democracy and Freedom
Helen Lipovsky, Board President
Rockland Coalition for Democracy
and Freedom
Box 28, New City, NY, 10956
www.rcdf.org
35
N_XkJKI<E>K?<EJX:FDDLE@KP
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To the Ramapo Catskill Library System
On your 50th Anniversary
from
Board of Directors
Spring Valley, New York
At Provident BankWEHAVEADEEPLONGSTANDING
RELATIONSHIPANDCOMMITMENTTOLOCALRESIDENTSBUSINESSES
ACADEMICNONPROFITANDGOVERNMENTINSTITUTIONS We are
Congratulations
PROUDOFTHEFACTTHATOURCUSTOMERSBENEFITFROMTHESTRENGTH
OFTHISKNOWLEDGEANDEXPERIENCEEVERYDAY
7EUNDERSTANDTHEVALUEOFBEINGCONNECTEDTOTHE
to the
COMMUNITYANDHONORTHOSEINDIVIDUALSANDCOMPANIESWHO
Ramapo Catskill
Library System
on its
50th Anniversary
The Staff and Board of Trustees
of
Middletown Thrall Library
HAVESELFLESSLYCONTRIBUTEDTHEIRTIMEANDEFFORTSOVERTHEYEARS
INHELPINGTOBUILDABETTERCOMMUNITYFOREVERYONE
We congratulate RCLS
on 50 years
of excellent service to its member libraries. Corporate Headquarters:
2ELLA"OULEVARDs-ONTEBELLO.9-4243
Hardenburgh Abstract Company of Orange County
#USTOMER#ARE#ENTER
www.providentbanking.COM
-EMBER&$)#
34
7
PRO725_Journal Ad_8.5x11_BW.indd 1
6/17/08 11:35:28 AM
1h9o5f a9n:er
birt
The Friends of the
Pine Bush Area Public Library
a!
t
i
o
a
n
l
s
u
!
t
a
r
g
n
o
C
96 Main Street—Nyack
Phone: 358-0688
A complete Pharmacy—Stocked from
* Newspapers *
* Magazines *
* Lottery *
* Film & Batteries*
* Candy & Snacks *
*Seasonal Items *
from Florida Public Library
The Board of Trustees
* Greeting Cards*
* Stationery *
*Toys & Plush *
* Helium Balloons *
* Cosmetics *
* Colognes *
* Film Developing * Money Orders *
* Fax & Copy * UPS Shipping*
*Convenience Foods * Household Products *
* Homeopathic Remedies * Vitamins *
* Professional Hair Care * Health & Beauty Aids *
Congratulate RCLS on 50 years of
fine service to our community. We
greatly appreciate all you do and will
continue to be supportive of your
future programs.
Congratulations to the
Ramapo Catskill Library System
as you celebrate your 50th Anniversary
of service to the public libraries
in Orange, Rockland, Sullivan
and Southern Ulster Counties
From
Fax: 358-7966
Open 7 days a week - 365 days a year
Visit us at
www.koblins.com
“Serving the Nyack Community since 1934”
MUCH SUCCESS to the
RAMAPO CATSKILL LIBRARY SYSTEM
on your
50TH ANNIVERSARY
Jerry Koblin & Staff
50 Years of
Service?? Wow!
VIRGINIA TESTI
…..And they
don’t look a
day over 49!
Congratulations
RCLS
From
The Goshen Public Library
The Moffat Library of Washingtonville
8
33
Congratulations
to the
Board of Trustees and Staff of RCLS
on your 50th Anniversary!
Wishing you another 50 years of
continued success!
The Board of Trustees and Staff
of the
Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library
The Trustees and Staff of the Wallkill Public Library thank
RCLS for valued guidance these many years,
anticipating continued superior leadership.
Books & Automation
Congratulations on 50 years
of successful service, support
and leadership.
A proud partner
of the
Ramapo Catskill
Library System
and an advocate for
lifelong learning.
www.books.brodart.com
32
220 N. Main St.
New City, NY 10956
845-634-4997
http://www.newcitylibrary.org
Kudos to our own Harry Bloomfeld who was recognized by RCLS with a
2009 Honorable Mention Trustee Award.
9
8.5x5.5Ad-color
10/16/07
8:21 PM
Page 2
Nugent & Haeussler, P.C.
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
ESTABLISHED 1925
Congratulations
to the
Board of Trustees and Staff of
RCLS
on your 50th Anniversary!
Wishing you another 50 years of
continued success!
101 Bracken Road
Montgomery, NY 12549
Tel: (845) 457-1100 Fax: (845) 457-1160
email: [email protected]
Members:
New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Reading is Power.
Leer es Poder.
Sincerely,
The Board of Trustees and Staff
of the
Greenwood Lake Public Library
Happy 50th
Birthday
Ramapo Catskill
Library System!
IN MEMORY OF
PAUL H. DUMOND
First RCLS Bookmobile Clerk/Driver
Ulster County Member of the
RCLS Board of Trustees
1974-1978, 1984-1993
by
MARION M. DUMOND
First RCLS Children’s Consultant
RCLS Interim Director 2000
Ulster County Member of the
RCLS Board of Trustees, 2003-2008
Best Wishes
Ramapo Catskill Library System
celebrating 50 years of service
From the RCLS Staff
From the Mission Statement
The Friends of the Newburgh Free Library
recognize the importance of a strong
library to the community’s welfare.
10
Friends
of the Newburgh Free Library
124 Grand St. Newburgh , NY 12550
845-563-3600 newburghlibrary.org
“Lighting the way
in service to Public
Libraries in Orange,
Rockland, Sullivan and
southern Ulster
Counties since 1959”
C. Scott Vanderhoef
rockland county executive
31

Congratulations
on 50 years of serving libraries
Staff and Board of Trustees
of the
Albert Wisner Public Library
Warwick, NY


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
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
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“Harnessing the power of nature”
Solar Electric and Solar Thermal
Design & Installation
BPI Certified Home Energy Analyst on staff




22 Third Street New City, NY 10956
New City, NY 10956
845-348-4708
www.isi-solar.com
© Thomson Reuters 2009 All rights reserved
Congratulations
The Friends of Middletown Thrall Library
in Middletown, NY are proud to support
The Ramapo Catskill Library System’s
h
Annual
5 0 tSummer
a n n iReading
v e r s aProgram.
ry
Visit our
USED BOOK STORE
right next to our Library
11-19 Depot Street, Middletown, NY
to the
Ramapo Catskill
Library System
on its
BOOK STORE HOURS
50th Anniversary
of Dedicated Service to its
Member Libraries
Call 344-1255 for more details
Sande & Gary Lefkowitz
Tuesday 12pm - 5pm
Wednesday 12pm - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm
SirsiDynix Enterprise 3.0 leads the way with fuzzy logic and multiple-source
searching, mobile browsing, social networking capabilities, consortia support,
and integrated reporting. The search and discovery solution of the future
is here today.
3
30
11
The Board of Trustees, the Staff, and Friends’ Association of
THE BLAUVELT FREE LIBRARY
Extend heartiest felicitations to
THE RAMAPO CATSKILL LIBRARY SYSTEM for
50 YEARS
Of excellent and continuous service to our member libraries.
Our own 100th Anniversary Celebration owes much of its longevity to
Your valued commitment over the years.
May you continue your fine efforts for years to come!
With Gratitude,
Mary E. Behringer, Director
Sal Pagnani, President, Board of Trustees
Patricia C. Duffy, President of the Friends
Save energy, money
and the environment
without sacrificing
comfort and safety.
Visit us at
www.oru.com/PowerofGreen.
the
12
power of green
29
The Par Group
of companies
Congratulates
The
Ramapo Catskill
Library System
Happy 50th Anniversary
As They Celebrate
50 Years of Continuous Service
1959-2009
Par Environmental Corporation
Par Wrecking Corporation
The Kurz Family
Foundation, Ltd.
Nyack, NY
Serving All Your Environmental and Wrecking Needs...
...Cleanly, Safely and Accurately
313 Spook Rock Road, Suffern, NY 10901
845-369-7500 • 1-800-771-3883
28
13
October 25, 2009 October 25, 2009 Dear Friends: Dear Friends: I am delighted to send greetings and congratulations to everyone who has gathered to celebrate th
the 50 Anniversary of the Ramapo Catskill Library System. I am delighted to send greetings and congratulations to everyone who has gathered to celebrate th
the
50
Anniversary of the Ramapo Catskill Library System. We all recognize and value the importance of lifelong learning, reading and research, and we gratefully acknowledge exceptional institutions that foster intellectual growth and personal enrichment in a community. Libraries provide us with a world of educational material, keep us linked to the information We all recognize and value the importance of lifelong learning, reading and research, and we gratefully acknowledge exceptional institutions that foster intellectual growth and personal enrichment in highway, expertly, through automation and technology, and act as treasure chests for our Nation’s great a community. Libraries provide us with a world of educational material, keep us linked to the information historical and literary works. They also play a critical role in the daily lives of local citizens by furnishing highway, expertly, through automation and technology, and act as treasure chests for our Nation’s great a gathering place, and focal point, for worthwhile community activities, through the many exciting historical and literary works. They also play a critical role in the daily lives of local citizens by furnishing programs which are offered. a gathering place, and focal point, for worthwhile community activities, through the many exciting The Ramapo Catskill Library System has done an outstanding job in presenting dynamic programs which are offered. information services, both essential and entertaining, to the residents of Rockland, Orange, Sullivan and Southern Ulster Counties. I commend all affiliated with this cooperative library system for their vision, The Ramapo Catskill Library System has done an outstanding job in presenting dynamic energy and commitment towards working collaboratively with each of its 47 member libraries, helping information services, both essential and entertaining, to the residents of Rockland, Orange, Sullivan and them to be proactive and dynamic institutions that address the changing needs of and improve the quality Southern Ulster Counties. I commend all affiliated with this cooperative library system for their vision, of life for each of their grateful users. energy and commitment towards working collaboratively with each of its 47 member libraries, helping them to be proactive and dynamic institutions that address the changing needs of and improve the quality Again, congratulations to Executive Director Robert Hubsher and the very capable staff of of life for each of their grateful users. RCLS on attaining this remarkable milestone. Again, congratulations to Executive Director Robert Hubsher and the very capable staff of With warmest regards, and best wishes for a wonderful evening, and much continued success in RCLS on attaining this remarkable milestone. the years ahead. With warmest regards, and best wishes for a wonderful evening, and much continued success in Sincerely, the years ahead. 14
Sincerely, David A. Paterson David A. Paterson 27
Annual Meeting Award Winners
The RCLS Annual Meeting and Awards Committee is pleased to announce this year’s
winners:
2009 Member Library Children’s / Teen Program of the Year Award -
Greenwood Lake Public Library for “Mad Science Metamorphosis”
Tara Forte, Youth Study Center Supervisor, designed a special summer program for Grades 5 and
up. Thirty Painted Lady butterflies were raised from the larval stage to full adulthood. While
watching this metamorphosis, the students compared this event to their own growth changes. The
success of this program more than achieved the goal of instilling knowledge of nature, its changes
and how this knowledge helps us to understand our own development. Literacy was encouraged
through the use of written instructions and handouts as well as the books that were displayed on this
subject during the program.
2009 Member Library Adult Program of the Year Award Orange Library Association for “The Big Read 2008”
The 17 libraries of the Orange Library Association (OLA) won a $15,000 matching grant from the
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to participate in its Big Read community-wide reading
program. OLA found a project in which all county libraries could work together for the benefit of
their members as well as readers of all ages in their communities. The Grapes of Wrath was chosen
because of its relevance to issues of global warming, local migrant worker and labor practice issues,
as well as the county’s farm heritage. Readers viewed the novel’s choice as very well-suited, noting
the parallel to current housing, mortgage and banking crises. An estimated 3,000 people attended
The Big Read programs. Some participants created programs which they took on the road to other
libraries free of charge. The committee also created a Website, Orangereads.org which they intend
to keep going for future OLA and Big Read projects.
2009 Anthony J. Knipp Library Trustee Award -
THE STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT / THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK / ALBANY, NY 12230
Bernard A. Margolis
State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries
THE STATENew
EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT / THE UNIVERSITY OF THE
York State Library
10C34 Cultural Education Center
Bernard A. Margolis
Albany, New York 12230
474-5930
State Librarian Tel.
and (518)
Assistant
Commissioner for Libraries
(518) 486-6880
New York StateFax
Library
10C34 Cultural Education Center
Albany, New York 12230
Tel. (518) 474-5930
Fax (518) 486-6880
STATE OF NEW YORK / ALBANY, NY 12230
August 2009
August 2009
Happy Anniversary Ramapo Catskill Library System!
The celebration of a fiftieth anniversary offers an opportunity to look back and assess progress and in so doing to be re-invigorated for the future. The Ramapo Catskill Library System has a
successful record of delivering quality service in support of local library services. Equitable access Happy Anniversary
Ramapo Catskill Library System!
for the residents of the region has been the goal and success in its achievement can be measured in the miles logged by the delivery van fleet and the more than 3 million items transported between The celebration of a fiftieth anniversary offers an opportunity to look back and assess progress among the libraries, just in the past year. The The Ramapo bright and challenging future of the has Ramapo and in so and doing to be re-invigorated for the future. Catskill Library System a
Catskill Library System requires continued dedicated leadership looking thoughtfully ahead successful record of delivering quality service in support of local library services. Equitable access as demand for library services continues to grow in support of our information economy. for the residents of the region has been the goal and success in its achievement can be measured in the miles logged by the delivery van fleet and the more than 3 million items transported between With every good wish, I am and among the libraries, just in the past year. The bright and challenging future of the Ramapo Catskill Library System requires continued dedicated leadership looking thoughtfully ahead as demand for library services continues to grow in support of our information economy. Sincerely,
With every good wish, I am Marian Swope, Sunshine Hall Free Library, Eldred
Marian Swope served on the Board of Trustees from 2001 to 2008, serving as President for each
of those seven years. Among her accomplishments during her tenure as Board President: she
completed the paperwork for the library to become a 501(c)(3) organization, secured shelving for
the children’s area, facilitated a Boy Scout’s long list of tasks to attain Eagle Scout status and
completed the NY State Library Construction Grant application. Additionally, she lobbied many
politicians and pursued funding through contracts with local governments. Marion led the board
with energy, enthusiasm and a desire to do her best in serving the library. Her leadership instilled an
activist and positive attitude in her fellow trustees as well.
Bernard A. Margolis
Sincerely,
State Librarian Bernard A. Margolis
State Librarian Honorable Mention Trustee Award Harry Bloomfeld, New City Library
Harry Bloomfeld is a voice of reason and experience. His coaching, advisement and experience has
helped greatly in making new board members into effective representatives. He has served as the
Board representative to the Union Negotiating Team and served as Chair of the Library Finance
Committee. He also participated in meetings of the Planning and Policy Committee in reviewing the
Bylaws, and in creating an investment policy and a procurement policy. He is a major asset to the
New City Library and community.
26
15
Welcome!
Current Board 2009
Stephen L. Oppenheim, Board President
Welcome to the celebration of 50 years of the Ramapo Catskill Library
System. We have a lot to celebrate.
When I joined the RCLS Board for the first time, 40 years ago, the System was, in many ways, a
different institution than it is today: It had money to give to the member libraries; it had a book
collection; we thought that answer was spelled with a “w”. Today, member libraries provide
nearly 100% financing for ANSER; we have no books to speak of; and I know how to spell
ANSER.
On the other hand, RCLS continues to be a cooperative system committed to serving the needs
of library users in Orange, Rockland, Sullivan, and southern Ulster Counties.
These changes and others, which I have been fortunate to be able to observe, are central to the
way RCLS and its member libraries have fulfilled their obligation to our service area. Together
RCLS and its member libraries have, cooperatively, adapted to the changing needs of their client
population and to advances in library science and technologies. Most of all, we have been able
to make these adjustments while together dealing with the failure of the State government to
keep its commitment to the library systems and library patrons of the State of New York.
Over the past 40 years it has been my pleasure to serve several terms as a Trustee of RCLS and
to serve as its President and Vice President. It has been my pleasure to work with RCLS
Directors, Trustees, and staff members and to interact with member library directors and
trustees. I have known the pleasure of our collectively solving problems and the frustration of
failing to do so.
I am about to reach the end of my presidency and the end of my years as an RCLS trustee. I will
not be here to help continue the work of RCLS, but I wish those of you who will continue the
work success in your efforts. RCLS and its members will never be problem free, but by working
together, you can face the challenges of the future. I urge you to keep your lines of
communication open and in frequent use.
I thank you all for the opportunity that you have given me to be of service.
Carl S. Berkowitz
Norman R. Gallagher
Robert P. Knight, Vice President
Herbert Lerner
Stephen L. Oppenheim, President
Ira Simon
Samuel L. Simon
Alfred Smiley
Patricia Soto, Secretary
Mark Specthrie
Melvin Wesenberg, Treasurer
Joanne Sininsky / Marilyn McIntosh
(Non-voting Directors Association Representatives)
16
25
Founding Board 1959
Fifty Years of Dedicated Service
Robert Hubsher, Executive Director
The year the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) was chartered the average income for an American was
slightly over $5,000, the cost of gas was $0.25 per gallon, you could send a letter for $0.04 and US book
publishers released just under 15,000 titles. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary the average income is around
$38,000, gas is $2.77 per gallon, a domestic stamp is $0.44 and American book publishers released over
275,000 titles.
Over the last 50 years the population within our service area has more than doubled. The total number of items
owned by our member libraries has grown from around 63,000 items to over 6.7 million items. Total circulation
of materials has increased from around 60,000 to over 5.8 million.
Much has changed over the last 50 years, but perhaps nothing has had a greater impact on RCLS and our lives
than the revolutionary changes in technology. The year 1959 marked the advent of the second generation of
computers based on transistors, rather than vacuum tubes and it was the year the first commercial photocopier was
released. The 1960s brought us the first mass produced minicomputer (PDP-8), at the unheard-of low price of
$18,000; and the forerunner of the Internet – ARPnet. In 1969 we landed on the moon.
David H. Bush
L. Donald Campbell, Treasurer
Virginia S. Cornell
Robert W. Kelso
Bernard Krasnow
Dr. Jerome I. Levy
Martha McGrath, Secretary
Paul W. Melone
Mary Preston, President
Harold B. Spriggs
Milton P Townsend, Vice President
Clarence W. Wegman
24
The 1970s and 1980s ushered in the era of the personal computer, spreadsheet and word processing software
and the cellular telephone. Through the 1990s computers became smaller and cheaper, new file formats made
possible the creation and storage of sound, pictures and movies and the Internet evolved into the World Wide
Web (WWW). Since 2000 the WWW has become ubiquitous, high speed telecommunication networks have
become affordable and the new ways of sharing and exchanging content (social networking) have begun to change
how people communicate and interact.
RCLS expanded its position in the computer age during 1989, when nine member libraries automated their
services. The last member library joined the Automated Network Services (ANSER) in 2000. We started with 56
computer terminals, now we have over 700 PCs connected to our fiber optic network.
The history of RCLS is not just a story about technology; it reflects the growth and development of our member
libraries and the evolution of library services. RCLS and the skill set of our staff developed in response to member
needs. It is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our staff that we continue to provide the highest
caliber of service in spite of these enormous changes and the imposing obstacle of State Aid remaining unchanged
since 1990.
I am proud to be part of RCLS and I am humbled by the enthusiasm, perseverance and steadfastness of the RCLS
staff. Together we celebrate our 50th anniversary and rededicate ourselves to service on behalf of our member
libraries.
17
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on November 17, 1959, twenty-five public libraries in Orange, Rockland, Sullivan, and Ulster Counties voted to establish a cooperative library system, to be named the Ramapo
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System;
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In Witness Whereof, I have Hereunto
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Signature District, honor and applaud the Ramapo Catskill Library System, its founders,
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benefactors, directors, and employees as they celebrate its 50th anniversary and issue and award this proclamation of esteem and merit to the Ramapo Catskill Library System.
Dated: October 25, 2009
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18
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23
brary holdings had resulted from years of dedication to form an accurate union catalog, built to facilitate
resource sharing. Within the next decade, nine visionary member libraries committed to automation and
the creation of ANSER (Automated Network SERvices). ANSER now serves all RCLS libraries on a
shared cost basis. In 2006 RCLS launched an optical fiber network connecting all member libraries.
Today, library patrons have the electronic means to request library materials via their home computers
and to access a wealth of commercial databases and download digital materials over the Internet.
The statewide Summer Reading Program has become an exciting annual event throughout
RCLS, a showcase for the ingenuity of youth services librarians and related personnel as they keep the
changing themes and activities interesting and attractive to young readers.
This past half-century of Ramapo Catskill Library System service has been marked by change,
growth, adaptation, implementation of new technologies, experimentation and the formation of new
partnerships. The Library Association of Rockland County (LARC), Orange Library Association (OLA),
and Sullivan Ulster Public Library Association (SUPLA) continue to supplement and enhance cooperation among RCLS members, providing a venue for regional projects and interests.
Throughout its half-century at 619 Route 17M, RCLS has remodeled, adapted, and expanded
the headquarters building. The 2007-08 installation of solar panels, supported by a state grant, may
well be another “first” among library systems, as well as a long term cost-cutting investment.
Fiscal uncertainties, caused by years of static state funding and minimal external income, compounded by an erratic economy, will continue to
confront RCLS and its member libraries as we enter
our second half-century.
Today, 47 member public libraries together
face the challenges and opportunities of the future,
still seeking to improve and extend the best of
library service to the residents of the Ramapo
Catskill Library System.
RCLS Leadership
1959—Elena Horton
1965—Eleanor Harris
1969—Robert E. Thomas
1972—Alfred L. Freund
22
1986—James B. Nelson
1987—Richard V. Anglin
2000—Robert Hubsher
19
libraries began in September 1960. Within two
The First Fifty
years, the Sullivan County Board of Supervisors
voted to purchase its own bookmobile and con-
Fifty years ago, in September 1959, trustees from Orange, Rockland, Sullivan, and Ulster
tracted with the Ramapo Catskill Library System to
County public libraries, empowered by the 1958 legislation authorizing the creation of state-funded
run it.
public library systems met with Library Extension Division consultants of the New York State Education
Early years were marked by extensive attention
Department to discuss the future of library service in their counties.
to member library collection development, the crea-
These trustees recommended the formation of a three or four county cooperative library system, since the cooperative format would ensure the autonomy and integrity of each existing local library.
interlibrary loan service. A “pool collection” was established at the
By virtue of membership in the association, each library would be able to improve and extend its existing
headquarters building, open to all libraries to supplement their own
services to the people of the system area by sharing resources and working together to offer new ser-
collections. Delivery was an essential service from the beginning, with
vices not feasible for individual libraries working independently.
frequently changing schedules as demand increased. During the early
On November 17, 1959, twenty-five public libraries in Orange, Rockland and Sullivan Counties
years, the delivery driver was a college student and the schedule was
and a portion of Ulster County voted to establish a cooperative library system. The Newburgh Free Li-
changed every semester, to accommodate his school schedule. Pro-
brary, with the largest nonfiction collection in the area, was designated the Central Reference Library. A
fessional consultants conducted book selection meetings, staff training
system board of twelve trustees was elected and a month later, the New York State Board of Regents
workshops and helped member library staff “weed” their collections
granted the Ramapo Catskill Library System a provisional charter.
to make room for fresh material and fill in subject gaps or inadequa-
System Director Elena Horton, with a staff of seven, began actual operation on August 1, 1960
in temporary headquarters at 34 West Main
cies.
The Sullivan County Bookmobile was discontinued by the end
Street, Middletown, but moved within a
of the 1970s due to lack of operational funding from Sullivan County. RCLS worked with citizen groups
month to what became the system’s perma-
in the county to establish reading centers in larger communities bereft of the local library services to
nent headquarters at 619 North Street (now
which they had become accustomed. Reading centers in Jeffersonville, Narrowsburg and South Fallsburg
Route 17M). The professional staff, com-
matured into independent chartered public libraries.
posed of Elena Horton, Assistant Director
Radio Vision, a radio reading service utilizing volunteer
Eleanor Harris, and Technical Services Con-
readers, went on the air in late 1979 and reached out for
sultant Theodore Rands, concentrated on
more than 25 years to those who could not use conventional
producing a monthly informational newslet-
print media or were disabled.
ter, compiling buying lists as guides for the $200 annual book grants, and getting to know each member library’s needs. Marion Milk became the first RCLS Children’s Consultant in mid-1960.
State-supported demonstration bookmobile service to Sullivan County communities without
20
tion of the union catalog and the rapid growth of
During the 1970s, RCLS led the State in automation
by providing automated MARC records for the system union
card catalog (a paperless catalog of the holdings of all the member libraries). A superb database of li-
21