By Chris Barber
Contributing Writer

Local residents and users of the Avon Grove Library gathered to celebrate its 150th birthday on Saturday at the building on Exchange Place in West Grove.

The event, planned by library director David Payne, had something for everyone—ranging from two magic shows to children’s activities to the presentation of citations by elected officials.

The children’s classroom filled up early with parents engaged in craft projects with their children. In honor of the special occasion, all of the children were given gold-colored crowns to wear and cupcakes to eat.

Professional magician Mike Rose of nearby Bel Air, Md., gave two shows: One for children in which he demonstrated tricks, and another later for adults during which he discussed the history of magic.

Rose travels nationally and often gives shows for schools. He said recently the topics of the information he presents has tended to skew from entertaining magic to curriculum-based presentations. He said he often attends national conventions attended by magicians, who gather to meet and share information.

A string of elected local officials presented a variety of citations, including one coin of historical recognition from U.S. Rep Chrissy Houlahan, D-PA-6, of Devon. Appearing for Houlahan was Sue Walker, the district director of Houlahan’s staff, who said, “People say libraries are outdated. They are wrong.”

She added with humor, “A truly great library has something to offend everybody.”

Also sharing words of praise and citations for the Avon Grove Library were Chester County Library System executive director Joe Sherwood, State Sen. John Kane, D-9, of Birmingham, Chester County Commissioner Eric Roe, of West Bradford, and State Rep. John Lawrence, R-13, of West Grove.

Kane confessed that as a young boy his academic achievements were less than outstanding. He said he was helped in his pursuit of knowledge by the local library and all its books.

“Libraries show that a troubled kid can become a  state senator,” he said.

Payne, his necktie adorned with balloon designs, spent much of the day pacing the area to survey how things were going. Following the string of awards and photo opportunities, he said he was pleased with the proceedings and with the large turnout.

The Avon Grove Library was founded in 1874 when Sara Conard, an owner of Conard and Pyle Nurseries, established a library of 50 books in the nursery hardware store.

Through the years,  the library’s location changed several times, and it evolved continuously into a free and public library that upgrades its programs and offerings for a diverse population.

Between 1999 and 2000, a capital campaign raised money for what is is now the Avon Grove Library. That building also serves as a police station and borough administration site. The building opened in 2003.

Payne said he is proud of the services the library provides as it keeps up with modern technology.

Among its offerings are video cassettes, audio tapes, and network technology incorporated into individualized tablets that can combine the written word with activities and projects for young people.

“We work with the community—all ages and all needs,” he said.

During his comments, Lawrence praised the library for serving the community so well throughout its long history.

Roe also commented on the long history of the library as it served residents in the community.

“Think of all the people who have learned here through history,” he said.