The Winslow Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner last Friday was marked by an enlightening presentation about the new Winslow Public Library, slated to open next door to the chamber. The much-anticipated event brought together members of the local business community, library enthusiasts, and city officials for an evening of camaraderie and insight into the future of public services in Winslow.
Lisa MacLean, secretary of the Friends of the Library Association, along with Winslow Public Library’s Head Librarian Brandee Leary, took the stage to unveil plans for the new library facility. The presenters, who are mother and daughter, offered a comprehensive look into the library’s future and its storied past.
MacLean delved into the rich history of Winslow Library, which originated from modest beginnings in a small room shared with the city hall and the fire department. She highlighted the pivotal role of the Whipple family in the library’s fundraising and development, noting the library’s original naming after Roxanne Whipple, a 7-year-old who died after being struck by a car in 1966.
Although renamed Winslow Library to reflect its inclusion in the county’s library district in 2002, the legacy of the Whipple family endures, with the children’s section, “Roxanne’s Room,” continuing to honor her legacy. Which will continue to the new building. The presentation was punctuated by a nostalgic photo from 1998, capturing MacLean and a young Leary at the library’s digital dawn with its first computer and electronic catalog.
Leary’s segment focused on the vibrant array of events hosted by the library, particularly during summer to engage the local youth. She encouraged attendees to explore the library’s event calendar available on the city’s website for a glimpse into the community hub’s dynamic offerings.
The evening also witnessed the election of new Winslow Chamber of Commerce board members, introducing Linda Branch from Arizona@Work, Tina Scott from Scott Animal Hospital and Rick Lee from Arizona Eagle Business Services. They step into roles vacated by Debbie Martinez, Frank Guzmans and Roland Hancock, who all spent a long time serving the business community of Winslow in their roles.
