'Special Member' Of New Rochelle Library Family Joyfully Remembered

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The New Rochelle Public Library took time this week to honor the lasting legacy of a longtime staff member who died in 2020.

A celebration of the life of Robert Matthew Klein took place on Wednesday at the Main Branch of the Library.

Friends, family and library staff took part in a brief program to remember Klein. New Rochelle Public Library Director Tom Geoffino spoke in terms of family when recounting the mark Klein left on the organization. David Torres and Chris Poggiali, Adult Librarians who worked closely with Klein, were on hand to recall his time as a co-worker and a friend. New Rochelle Public Library Foundation President Chris Selin paid tender tribute and Robert’s parents, Shelley and Fred Klein shared moving memories of their son.

"The New Rochelle Public Library was a special place for Robert — a place he truly felt welcomed and valued," the Kleins told those gathered. "We are thankful to the leadership and staff at the Library who, without hesitation, welcome individuals of differing abilities like Robert and find a meaningful place for them to thrive. This celebration is not only for Robert — it is also for the library staff who so warmly embraced our son."

In honor of their son, the Kleins made a generous donation to the New Rochelle Public Library Foundation. The funds were used to create two study rooms on the 3rd floor for patrons to have a quiet, private space in which to work or study, and to revitalize artist Dale Zheutlin’s hanging murals that adorn the Memorial Highway side of the Library.

"The Kleins' generous donation in honor of Robert enabled us to enhance the Library and make it a better place for everyone," Selin said. "We are grateful to the Kleins for their philanthropy and know Robert’s legacy will live on at the Library."

The Klein family established the Robert Matthew Klein Fund for Inclusion and Special Needs at Beth El Synagogue Center in honor of their son, who managed to find his own path, remarkable independence, the respect of his peers and touch countless lives while overcoming developmental challenges.

"The New Rochelle Public Library always strives to be a welcoming place for everyone," Geoffino said. "The value of inclusion is something we take very seriously. The Library was a special place for Robert, and Robert was a special member of our Library family. I am very proud of our staff who worked with Robert as a colleague, making him — as they do everyone who walks through our doors — feel at home."