By Michael E. Gordon, Member
Foundation Board of the Red Bank Public Library
Although unaccustomed to consulting numerologists, preparing for the 80th anniversary of the Red Bank Public Library (RBPL) aroused my curiosity about the significance of this number. Given the celebratory appeal of the number 25 and its multiples, it was understandable that the RBPL celebrated its 75th anniversary as the Eisner Library with a yearlong series of events in 2012. But 80? Beside the fact that an 80th birthday among my friends appears to be recognized with more pomp than years 79 or 81, I was unaware of any special meaning associated with the number that might warrant celebration of the RBPL’s longevity in 2017.
Here’s what several numerology sources suggested that the number 80 might denote about the RBPL in 2017. First, several sources acknowledged that “giving and receiving” were the most salient attributes of the number 80. Without question this is an apt description of the RBPL that is worth celebrating! Because the RBPL offers the community a varied, up-to-date collection of reading, listening, and viewing materials in both traditional and digital formats, over 40,000 items circulated in 2016. Further, the RBPL staff was able to answer almost 6000 questions from patrons about a wide variety of issues in 2016. Talk about giving and receiving!
Second, according to numerological sources, people or institutions designated as 80 use their position for the highest good of humankind. What an 80 creates tends to be highly beneficial to society and typically endures for a long time. Clearly, the RBPL deserves applause in 2017 for the enrichment its patrons have experienced over the years as reported in the results of a recent comprehensive public survey. Specifically, respondents indicated that use of the RBPL permanently expanded their scholarly, cultural, and artistic horizons, and provided the intellectual push that transformed their children into committed lifetime readers. Indeed, last year alone saw 20,000 visits to the children’s room. Surely, the RBPL has left an indelible mark on the greater Red Bank community. Bravo, RBPL, your profile is that of a perfect 80!
Besides these numerological inferences, an 80th anniversary celebration is justified by the RBPL’s emergence from the struggles endured during the five years since its 75th anniversary. The RBPL was brought back from the abyss by an infusion of energy and support from the Borough in response to the outpouring of community concern expressed at a 2014 meeting of the Red Bank Borough Council. A top-to-bottom change of leadership occasioned by this problem introduced fresh ideas regarding budgeting for the RBPL. Elizabeth McDermott, a librarian with corporate experience, was named Director. Among her initiatives have been administration of the aforementioned survey, preparation of a strategic plan to develop certain resources and expand particular programs, and new fundraising initiatives through the Foundation to underwrite those plans. Additionally, remaining staff and recently hired staff provide stability, creativity, and spontaneity to the important role played by the RBPL in the community.
Finally, by nature as a member of the Foundation Board I cannot resist appealing to readers to remember the RBPL with their financial support during this season of giving. What’s your tax deductible giving number? $80 (or a multiple thereof) would be appreciated greatly!
