A Long Love Story Inspires a Volunteer…
Ann Gray started volunteering as a pager at the Westover Branch Library on January 17, 2012, the second anniversary of her husband’s death.
Ann’s connection to Westover goes back to her childhood, when the library was housed in the apartments at the corner of Longfellow and Washington Boulevard, and her mother became friends with a librarian named Dorothy. Years later, Dorothy’s nephew graduated from college, and Dorothy asked Ann’s mother if Ann was still in the area… Dorothy’s nephew became Ann’s husband, and they had been together for over 45 years when he died.
What is your favorite part of volunteering?
Having access to the stacks before the lights come on and the patrons come in. The only sounds I hear are the voices of the thousands of authors.
What do you do when not volunteering?
I volunteer at Virginia Hospital Center pushing wheelchairs and pointing the way to the restrooms. Recently I’ve added the challenge of mastering the public transportation system since my decision to go car-free.
Are you a Metro DC native, or a transplant?
I consider myself a native, starting at age 6 about three blocks from where I’ve lived for the last 40 years. Walter Reed Elementary School was my grade school. I graduated from Washington-Lee HS.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Must I? [We say no.]
What is the best book you’ve read recently?
“Tapestry of Fortunes” by Elizabeth Berg.
What is the best movie you’ve seen recently?
Can’t remember when I last saw a movie in the theatre, but our public library has a massive collection of movies, any one of which is a pleasure.
Interested in becoming a Library volunteer? Check out the Current Openings on our Volunteer Page.
Prisila has been a Youth Services volunteer at Central Library since last spring, and is now helping staff with a special project in Materials Management. She also volunteers at local events and will soon add the hospital to her list of experiences.
An Awesome Person, and a Kindred Spirit
When we asked them why they enjoy spending their free time at the Library, they said that because Shirlington is a busy branch, they always feel like their volunteer work is needed and appreciated. And Sandi added, “The public library is a vital and wonderful institution – I want to do my part to support it.”
