SB Library Celebrates its 50th Anniverary

On Sunday, April 29 the South Brunswick Public Library recognized its 50th anniversary, almost to the day, with a dignified dedication followed by a festive celebration befitting such a hallmark.

After opening remarks on the front lawn by Library Director Chris Carbone, the dedication of a flagpole began. Speakers included Library Board President Muhammad Ashraf, Mayor Charles Carley, and Assemblyman Roy Freiman.

The flagpole was dedicated in the name of South Brunswick Township’s longest-serving mayor Frank Gambatese, who passed away a little over a year ago, complete with a cast aluminum plaque mounted on quarry stone donated by Trap Rock Industries LLC.

A moment of silence later honored Gambatese, the recently deceased Mayor Chris Killmurray, and those veterans who never made it home.

Rev. Charles T. O'Connor, pastor of St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church in Monmouth Jct., offered a blessing for the occasion and recalled his fond memories of the Library and the two past mayors remembered today.

Choral singers from the South Brunswick High School Concert Choir sang patriotic songs for the occasion.

Newly appointed Township Mayor Charles Carley addressed the crowd of about 120 people, recalling a baseball story about Mayor Gambatese and himself.

The flag ceremony included Mayor Gambatese’s son Franc and two daughters Rosemary and Maryanne. and was led by American Legion Post 401 and VFW Post 9111.

After the ceremony, the public was invited inside the Library to enjoy complimentary cupcakes and displays of Library archives and well wishes from famous authors. Children celebrated in the traditional birthday style with a variety of sweet treats, games, singing, and even a time capsule.