2 Fairfield Residents Receive CT Library Honor

FAIRFIELD, CT — Two longtime Fairfield residents have been recognized for their volunteer work supporting the town's public library.

Jennifer Butler and Michael Foley, active members of the Friends of Fairfield Public Library, received an award from the Friends of Connecticut Libraries on June 21 for their contributions to the Fairfield Public Library's programs and services. The award, presented during a ceremony at the Avon Public Library, honors individuals in municipalities with populations over 25,000.

Foley, who currently serves as president of the Friends group, and Butler, a board member, were nominated by Fairfield Public Library administrators. The married couple has organized the annual Fairfield Food Truck Festival for the past nine years, raising thousands of dollars to benefit the library.

In the past year, Foley also spearheaded two new fundraising events: the library’s first-ever "Night of Comedy" in February and an adult mini-golf night in April, both featuring food and drink. Butler, who owns a local fashion design business, sponsors seasonal fashion shows at the library and teaches sewing classes at the Fairfield Woods Branch.

"Together, Mike and Jen are a powerhouse couple who have done a tremendous amount of fundraising for FPL and its programs and services," said Scott Jarzombek, Town Librarian, in a statement. "We are thrilled to see them receive this award, which they wholeheartedly deserve."

Funds raised by the Friends group have helped support a range of library resources, including furniture for the Teen Room, an interactive children’s play table, and a 3D printer for the Maker Space.

The Friends of Connecticut Libraries is a nonprofit organization made up of local library support groups throughout the state. It recognizes outstanding volunteer contributions to public libraries each year.