What began in that little house on College Highway that remained in use as the town’s public library until 1999 has blossomed into a modern facility on Route 57.
Brett Outchcunis, "the yoyo guy," spins a yo-yo top on the head of James O. Macknight, 7, of Granville, who was among the crowd of children and adults who celebrated the 120th anniversary of the Southwick Public Library last month.SOUTHWICK – The town’s library was founded in 1891 in a private residence that offered the public 1,300 volumes by 1898. Today, the 12,000-square-foot, 120-year-old institution boasts more than 50,000 works.
The 1891 founding date of the first public library came 121 years after the town was incorporated in 1770. Recently, the Southwick Public Library, its patrons, supporters, state and local officials celebrated the library’s 120th anniversary with a presentation, entertainment for children, a birthday cake and free yo-yos and interactive performance.
What began in that little house on College Highway that remained in use as the town’s public library until 1999 has blossomed into a modern facility on Route 57 that serves the community with 51,841 books, DVDs, CD books, music titles and children’s books.
“A lot has changed over the years, but the important thing is for children and adults to take advantage of what the library has to offer,” said Town Chief Administrative Officer Karl J. Stinehart, who was among the dignitaries who celebrated the occasion.
In addition to Stinehart, the celebration was attended by state Rep. Nicholas A. Boldyga, R-Southwick; state Sen. Michael R. Knapik, R-Westfield; selectmen, representatives for U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield; U.S. Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass; visitors; and children enrolled in a summer reading program.
Also present were Peter Heap, president of The Friends of Southwick Public Library, and Michael McMahon, chair of the Southwick Public Library Board of Trustees.
“The library started in a small building across the street from the Southwick Inn,” McMahon said. “Today, we’re celebrating 120 years of service to the town.”
Library Director Ann M. Murray said the library offers programming for children, young adults and adults, as well as instructional programs and relaxation.
“Today’s celebration underlined the importance of the library as a multi-resource venue,” she added. “It’s no longer just a place to get books. It’s become a center – a hub, if you will – that fosters a sense of community.”
The celebration was highlighted with a performance from Brett C. Outchcunis, of Franklin, professional yo-yo trickster, who delighted the crowd with his skill, which included hula-hooping while spinning a yo-yo top in his hand. Â