When the Durham Public Library underwent two significant renovations over the course of a decade — first in 1985 and again starting in 1995 — Dorothy Willett was there to make sure the job got done. And done right.
Willett, who would have turned 80 in October, died last week after a long illness, but not before leaving an indelible mark on one of the town's most important landmarks.
"She was just the prime example of giving back to the community," said Durham resident and longtime library board member Jane Eriksen, who remembered her friend as "tenacious."
"She pursued perfection in every endeavor. Once she decided she was going to organize something and do it she made sure it was done, and done properly," Eriksen said.
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"Dorothy was lovingly called "The General." We referred to her as "The General" because she knew how to organize forces. She knew how to reach the ultimate goal," Eriksen said.
Willett was responsible for two upgrades that at one time might have been considered luxuries, even in a library: computers and air conditioning.
Along with her husband, the late Dr. Leo Willett, she donated the funds to install the air conditioning that today allows the library to serve as a cooling center during times of extreme heat.
She was also at the forefront of technological advances, advocating for computers and on-line access to allow for better, faster research at the library.
"She knew what she was talking about long before the rest of us had a clue," Eriksen laughed.
"Without Dorothy's vision, focus, tenacity and dedication, we would not have the two library additions that hundreds of residents utilize every week," said First Selectman Laura Francis. "Not only did she help design the building but she participated in construction management, fundraising and program improvements."
In 1997, Willett organized the first Taste of Durham, the annual fundraiser which raises money for the library, allowing it to offer additional programs, purchase new equipment or make necessary renovations.
"It was very obvious that she just loved this library, that she would do anything that she could to get whatever we needed," said Cyndi Shirshac, assistant library director.
"She was a magnificent role model. You just don't see that kind of involvement anymore," Eriksen noted.
In recognition of Dorothy Willett's service and dedication to the library, a gathering in her memory will be held in the library's lower level meeting room on Wednesday morning following 10 a.m. funeral services at Notre Dame Church and Mica Hill Cemetery.
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