Must-read: The Union League Guard House Hosts Gladwyne Free Library’s Annual Fundraiser

The charming floral-patterned invitation was designed by Board Member Mary Kate Bolinder.

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

“Bad libraries build collections, good libraries build services, great libraries build communities.” – R. David Lankes

Gladwyne Free Library held its annual fundraiser (its first since 2019) on a September afternoon at the private and exclusive Union League Guard House in Gladwyne, PA. Hosted by the library’s Board of Trustees, the $125-per person ticket to the “Library Libations” cocktail reception entitled purchasers to savory light bites, drinks, sweet treats and, most importantly, the opportunity to bid (during a silent auction) on an impressive array of items donated by local businesses and board members in an effort to raise essential funds for one of Gladwyne Village Center’s most treasured community jewels.

Approximately 50 attendees consisting of library patrons, friends (past and current), board members and curious bibliophiles such as myself were present. As an English major and a Gladwyne-based writer and photographer, I practically lived in libraries and bookmobiles during my youth. To this day, I feel most at home in one, particularly the Gladwyne Free Library, which has long been known as the “Heart of the Village.”

Once crowd camaraderie, mingling and libations had gotten under way, Board of Trustees Vice President Jenn Welby Gilbert took to the mic with an impassioned speech, citing the importance and extent of the library’s role – with its many educational and entertaining programs for adults and children alike–in the community. Thanking her audience in advance for their support, Welby Gilbert’s appeal effectively captured the attention of donors as was evidenced by the uptick in QR code scanning activity at the auction table post-talk.

The autumnally decorated auction table featured prizes that included something for everyone such as a delicate Kendra Scott necklace, a gift certificate from Homeroom, the wildly popular local coffee shop and cafe from Gladwyne-raised chef Henry Morgan, a skin care package and consult from Bryn Mawr Dermatology, tickets to the Philadelphia Eagles vs. New Orleans Saints game and even a certificate for a session at Cleopetra’s Grooming, Gladwyne’s full-service dog salon. And those are just a few examples of the proffered items.

As an inveterate reader, I couldn’t think of a better use of my most precious commodity (time) than spending several hours on a beautiful Sunday afternoon at this fundraising event, where I was able–thanks to my gracious board-member hosts–to enjoy the warm and cozy ambience of the historical Union League Guard House, engage with its stellar staff (Joe! Andrea! Tyler!), partake of sumptuous eats and sip fine wine, all while chronicling the exceedingly successful event through my lens and logophilic skills. Reading will forever be fundamental!

A massive shoutout to the sponsors is always in order. Thanks to The Angelakis Family Foundation (Oak Tree Sponsorship); Mark Sheehan & Lorna Weir and Justin & Neha Champaneria Markle (Branches Sponsorship); Chris & Michele Hanson (Acorn Sponsorship; The Guard House, Soundwaves Custom Home Integration and The Wetherill School (Event Sponsors). The resources, funding and services provided by sponsors cannot be underestimated. Board Member Elizabeth Lovett-Keshet designed the commemorative thank-you poster.

All of this writing about libraries and words has triggered in me the desire to read. If you’ll excuse me, I must now locate a nook and a book, preferably some seasonally apropos Edgar Allan Poe. “Those who gossip with you will gossip about you.” Truth, Edgar, truth. But I digress.

To find out more about Gladwyne Free Library’s current programs and more, visit Gladwyne Library – Lower Merion Libraries (lmls.org)

The Guard House Union League located in Gladwyne served as event venue for Library Libations.”

Artwork depicting The Union League of Philadelphia hangs above the stone fireplace’s mantel.

Fresh flowers are cheerful and welcoming.

A seasonally decorative table features a plethora of diverse prizes donated by local businesses and board members.

Reception guests peruse silent auction items, using phones to scan QR codes for bidding.

A delicate and pretty necklace makes for a lovely gift to both library and winning bidder.

The perfect pre-holidays primp package awaits!

Here’s one item that no doubt received plenty of QR code scanning. Go Birds. Reggie: you adorable oatmeal moppet, you! Welcome to the team, and WOOF.

Admittedly, I am a little more than partial to this auction item. Thanks for your support, Bossman!

Gladwyne-based writer and photographer Sharon Kozden displays her favorite auction item.

From Left, Carol Pasquariello and Jim Fuchs graciously honor my request for a photo.

From Left, Janice Grasso and Terry Allen smile winningly.

Guests quench with adult beverages.

The drinkable list is pictured beside AVA Grace’s Sauvignon Blanc, a highly rated California wine.

Thirst quenchers await the parched.

From Left, Anne Foote and Brendan Mance engage in a good time.

From Left, Director of the Lower Merion Library System Lynn Williamson and Gladwyne Free Library Children’s Librarian Alicemarie Collins front a China display.