Although the library building opened to the public in December 1937, official dedication ceremonies were not held until the following March.\u00a0 The dedication ceremonies were incorporated into a gala weekend of festivities unlike any the small village of Deposit had ever seen.\u00a0 They began on Friday night with a testimonial dinner at the Moran House.\u00a0 More than 150 people attended.\u00a0 Following the dinner, an evening of entertainment was held at the Deposit High School.\u00a0 More than 750 people crowded into the auditorium to enjoy an extensive program.\u00a0 Clark Minor spoke about world affairs, providing many details about the situation in Europe pre-World War II.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Musical and theatrical performances were given by both local and out-of town talent.\u00a0 The Deposit Symphony Orchestra (conducted by local dentist Dr. Guernsey Merchant) and the Deposit High School Band both performed.\u00a0 Ruth St. Denis, world-famous dancer and a pioneer of the American dance, traveled to Deposit to perform.\u00a0 Monologist Julia Vail rounded out the program.\u00a0 Miss Vail was another Deposit native who had gained fame as an actress and director touring all over the eastern United States.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Saturday brought further celebrations.\u00a0 The formal dedication of the library was held in the afternoon, followed by a tea and reception.\u00a0 Over 150 people filled the new building to its capacity to hear the dedication program.\u00a0 Hundreds more waited outside to tour the building following the speeches.\u00a0 Thomas Mangan, Chancellor of the University of the State of New York, was principal speaker.\u00a0 The assistant supervisor of libraries in New York State also made remarks.\u00a0 Clark Minor spoke on the value of reading.\u00a0 A string trio of young ladies provided music.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
To conclude the dedication, Minor made a formal presentation of the library keys to library president Mabel Sturdevant.\u00a0 He then officiated at the sealing of the vault in the library wall behind the bronze plaque.\u00a0 The following items were placed in the vault: the property deed, the library charter, a list of library subscribers, a list of those who donated toward the purchase of the site, copies of the Deposit Courier, and a dedication program.\u00a0 As far as we know, the archives remain there to this day.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Although the library building opened to the public in December 1937, official dedication ceremonies were not held until the following March.\u00a0 The dedication ceremonies were incorporated into a gala weekend of festivities unlike any the small village of Deposit had ever seen.\u00a0 They began on Friday night with a testimonial dinner at the Moran House.\u00a0 … <\/p>\n