The legacy of long-time Somerville librarian Thelma Donovan was honored at the Somerville Public Library on July 18. During the gathering, a donation of $10,000 was made in Thelma’s memory to the Friends of the Somerville Public Library.

Donovan enjoyed serving the Somerville community as a librarian for over fifty-five years, beginning her career in 1954 as a junior assistant, and working her way up to Assistant Director, a position she held for many years before retiring in 2006.

Donovan was also an accomplished painter. Two of her paintings, one of Prospect Hill Monument and the other of the Old Powder House, were donated to the Library.

Pictured here (L to R): Lilly Sundell-Thomas, Deputy Director of Libraries Claire Catalogna, sister; Wendy Wood, librarian; Nancy Champlin, sister; Cathy Piantigini, Director of Libraries; Elaine Czesniuk, sister; Maureen Donovan sister-in-law; Vice President of Library Trustees Maren Chiu; President of Library Trustees, Kate Van Sleet & her daughter, Charlotte.