The 100th Anniversary Committee planned a variety of events to celebrate this milestone. Special programs at the Library included the following:
January 14, 2013–Professor William “Pat” Schuber presented a wonderful slide lecture on the year 1913 when the Victorian era was ending and a new modern period was beginning.
February 11, 2013–Former Borough Historian, Frank Vierling gave an informative and delightful slide presentation of Oradell’s history as chronicled by postcards.
March 2, 2013–The 100th Anniversary Committee organized a celebration of Read Across America Day, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. Throughout the day, many Oradell dignitaries took part in the continuous read-a-thon.
April 1, 2013–A representative from the Newark Museum presented a talk about the historic Armory Art Show of 1913 and the effect it had on Modernism in American art.
April 15, 2013–A presentation was given by Frank Vierling and Bryan Collins about Ellsworth Kelly, the famous artist from Oradell, covering “Kelly the Man” and “Kelly the Artist”.
April 28, 2013–A Sunday afternoon (1:30 p. m. – 4:30 p. m.) open-house celebration of the original opening of the Oradell Public Library was held, including entertainment (the always popular Graham Clarke performing in the Junior Room from 2:00 p. m.- 2:45 p. m.), congratulatory remarks, some former staff members, and refreshments.
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July 4, 2013 — This year, because of its 100th anniversary, the Oradell Public Library was selected as the Grand Marshal of Oradell’s Independence Day parade on Thursday, July 4, 2013. The parade kicked off at 9 a. m. starting at Oradell Avenue and ending at Memorial Field on Prospect Avenue with ceremonies following. Marchers included members of the Board of Trustees, the Library Foundation, the Friends of the Library, and the staff. On-lookers watched for a special float constructed by students of River Dell Middle School under the direction of Ms. Melissa Miller and Mr. Tony Ciccotelli. Hundreds came out to join or watch the parade and cheer for and support the”Heart of the Community” — the Oradell Public LIbrary.”
100th Anniversary Student Artwork Display
As part of the Oradell Library’s 100th Anniversary celebration, the local schools were invited to submit students’ artwork or creative writing projects on topics relating to libraries. The entries were be on display throughout the Library during the month of April 2013. All work submitted was reviewed by a panel of judges, and prizes were awarded at the special anniversary party on Sunday, April 28, 2013 between 1:30 p. m. and 4:30 p. m.
Please visit the Library to see the some of the wonderful work of students from the primary grades through high school, which we are pleased still to have on display.
100th Anniversary Sale Items
Aprons and tee shirts with the 100th anniversary logo were for sale and were a good way to support the committee’s efforts. In addition, the Friends of the Library still have a variety of items from Tag Wraps to framed house pictures (of old Oradell homes). All items make very nice gifts for relatives or neighbors, and the proceeds of all sales benefit the Library.