I often quote that famous lyric of the Beatles, “I get by with a little help from my friends.” Last Saturday, Matilda J. Gibson got a lot of help from her friends, who appeared at our St. Patrick’s Day gala in unanticipated numbers to support the library and join the fun. Your support enabled our trustees and the Creston Friends of the Library to raise nearly $10,000 toward our planned expansion at the corner of Maple and Elm streets. That was a big win for Matilda, Creston and Union County, and we are deeply grateful!
Many of our most loyal supporters were present, and it was a very humbling experience for me personally, to see so many folks whom I fondly regard. I was pleased and proud that our 3rd District U.S. Representative, Congressman David Young, came to support our cause. It was yet another occasion that renewed my passion for public service and our commitment to the citizens of southwest Iowa.
The auction was a tremendous success, due to our supporters who donated baskets and individual items, and thanks to Creston auctioneer Darwin West, who generously donated his and his company’s services for the event. I believe that having a live auction greatly increased our proceeds, and we are indebted to Darwin and his team for spending their Saturday night managing bids for Matilda.
Interest in the auction was palpable throughout the week, but when the doors opened, the aroma was clear – the dinner was a home run. Special thanks to Kate Coen for hosting a clinic on how to prepare Irish-American fare. Saturday was a long day for Matilda’s warriors, and Kate was assisted by our capital campaign committee members and the Creston Friends of the Library, who also furnished sides and desserts. It was late that evening before I got to it, but I’ve never had corned beef and cabbage so good!
Jennie and I, along with my brother, Mark, and our friend Tabatha Hood, enjoyed closing out the event with our brand of traditional bluegrass music. Brandy and Wade Sick kindly entertained us during dinner, and Penny Cheers, with a little help from Jennie, kept the atmosphere lively with her keyboard talents.
Finally, we are deeply indebted to the Creston Eagles, who generously allowed us to host our event at their lodge. At every turn, the staff welcomed and assisted us, and it was a truly delightful place for us to celebrate and build on our legacy.
Without uncorking the bottle, I can promise you that Matilda’s warriors are fermenting some great events for the near future. Our trustees and capital campaign committee are ensuring the library remains an anchor institution of the uptown, while keeping Creston, Union County and surrounding areas connected with the world around us. If you haven’t visited us at the Gibson Memorial Library, come see what we have to offer – books-in-print, audiobooks and e-books for all ages, great genealogy and local history materials unique to our library, regular cultural programming and a friendly, capable staff to assist you. What really makes us great, however, is you! Thanks again for your support, and we look forward to seeing you again.