BY LYNN MELLIS WORTHINGTON REPUBLICAN-AMERICAN
February 1, 2021
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KENT – The Kent Memorial Library and the Kent Library Association were able to survive 2020 thanks to the financial generosity of nearly 200 people who together gave $60,000, which was matched by two individuals and helped make up for canceled fundraisers.
“Our three major event fundraisers — the book sale, gala and car raffle — all had to be canceled,” said Jim Blackketter, the library co-president. “Two great friends of the library, Betty Ruddy, a board member and chair of the Development Committee, and Ned Babbitt pledged $60,000 in matching funds.”
The library celebrated the end of the calendar year at its annual meeting Jan. 18, highlighting its finances and its programming that continues throughout the pandemic. Library Director Sarah Marshal said virtual programming was developed to thank the townspeople.