NEW ADDITION … Library dedication reveals the new children’s edition to the Bryan Public Library. (PHOTO BY TRISHELLE SMITH, STAFF)
By: Trishelle Smith
The library dedication kicked off with the Library Director, Jeff Yahraus introducing himself and his vision. Jeff started working at the library in 1977. He worked alongside Rachel Donahue, who the library addition is named after.
This new addition has added new shelving, an all mobile baby area, a tweens area, a treehouse and lion’s den. The addition has added new technology and materials.
Jeff’s vision for the library is to have a safe place for children to come and experience the written word.
The Library addition is named after Rachel and Elwood Donahue. Steve Donahue, Rachel and Elwood Donahue’s son, was there on her behalf. He wanted to thank the staff for all their hard work, and introduce his mother’s legacy to the public.
Rachel was born Rachel Matthews in 1920, in Bryan, Ohio. Her father owned the local drugstore and she was well known around town. Steve went on to explain how intelligent his mother was, speaking about all her awards she won. Rachel went on to marry her husband on elopement.
They lived a nomadic military lifestyle, living all around the world. After all their travels they settled in Bryan, Ohio. Steve explained how passionate his mother was and full of energy. He advised the audience that Rachel was a natural born leader, and loved by everyone.
Rachel was active in church, and social clubs, she was a great cook and loved gardening. She was competitive in all things and loved to compete. Rachel also loved working at the library.
She had the idea to put money into a trust for the library and that is what was used in the renovations today. Steve ended his speech by playing a trivia game to see how well the audience knows children’s books.
The game ended with Jeff unveiling the new addition to the library by tearing down the paper wall. Guests were then allowed to enjoy the new addition.
Trishelle can be reached at publisher@thevillagereporter.com