Whitehall Library Celebrates 50 Years with Anniversary Quilt

The Whitehall Public Library (established 1963) has officially hung its long-awaited 50th anniversary quilt. The wall hanging represents a collection of 60 books chosen by a united community of readers and library supporters, according to a library news release.

The anniversary quilt project started as a light bulb in the head of Alfie Chico, a Whitehall Library "Friend," volunteer and patron whose idea combined her love for books and her love for quilting.

Working with library staff, Chico's idea evolved into a commemorative work of golden anniversary art as well as a successful library fundraiser that garnered close to $5,000. (For a $100 donation, a library supporter could select a favorite title for the quilt.)

Chico teamed with professional quilt designer and Whitehall Borough resident Sue Cook, who oversaw the project and helped to transform Chico's inspiration into a reality.

Together, Chico and Cook worked with library board trustee and fellow quilter Deb Recker to stitch together the quilt for many months, and Whitehall resident Cathy Werner then became responsible for final quilting.

Library staff have also created a companion reference for the quilt. The reference designates which titles are on the quilt, who donated them and why the books hold special meaning.

The quilt holds an eclectic mix, ranging from Stephen King's The Stand to The Holy Bible.

"It's interesting and heartwarming to read about which titles were selected and why," the release states. "Please stop by the library to admire this new treasure in honor of the Whitehall Public Library's first 50 years."