Huntington Woods Library's 50th Anniversary Bash a Blast

The mood was festive Sunday at the 's 50th anniversary bash.

Residents past and present who have helped make the library what it is today were recognized in the on the facility's lower level during a program both reverent and fun, organized by library Director Anne Hage.

The festivities began with a quick welcome from Toni Brandt, who has been president of the Friends of the Huntington Woods Library for the past 18 years. The organization was among those recognized during the event as being integral to the success and longevity of the library.

“Through all the years, the Friends of the Huntington Woods Library have raised over $100,000 for the library,” Brandt said.

Eager to get the festivities rolling, Brandt introduced the afternoon's entertainment. Members of the , led by David Appelman, took their positions at the front of the packed Woods Gallery. Within seconds of the first tune, Kidz Klez had everyone clapping and joining in.

The talented group of 18 sixth- through 12th-graders danced through traditional and contemporary klezmer pieces and eventually brought the house down with its closing number, a rousing rendition of When the Saints Go Marching In.

After the performance, attendees were encouraged to mix and mingle during a refreshment break.

One of the library's most famous patrons, Andy the Reading Dog, was there to celebrate, too. Andy, a 3-year-old yellow Labrador and certified therapy dog, was accompanied by his owner, Jane Alkon. Alkon often brings Andy to the library and has children read to him.

“The benefit of reading to a dog is that the dog won't judge or correct the kids," Alkon said. "It gives them a chance to read without worrying about making mistakes."

After the refreshments, everyone returned to the Woods Gallery for a recognition ceremony.

Phyllis Solmen, historian for the Huntington Woods Study Club, presented a comprehensive and moving history of the library. She wove a narrative that started Feb. 6, 1942, in the basement of the with 500 donated books; continued through the opening of a new library at the current site in 1961; and wrapped up in the present, with a library that offers 47,000 print titles and a host of other media.

“Today is a celebration of 50 years in this building and a salute to the people who, 70 years ago, saw a need for their children and community and did something about it,” Solmen said.

At its core, Sunday's celebration was an homage to the residents of Huntington Woods.

“I love working here because of the community," Hage said. "It's like having another family. Everyone supports everything that's going on, and I thank everyone for the support.”

Brandt echoed that sentiment: “The people who have been involved, the people I've worked closely with, have all been dedicated to helping the library and the community.”