The Friends mark the passing of Lillian Levin, who is remembered not only for her tireless work in support of the Welles-Turner Memorial Library and her work in support of libraries on a state and national level, but also for her friendship with all the community members who volunteered with her on the incredibly successful book sales she ran.

Lillian moved to Glastonbury in 1986 and quickly became involved at Welles-Turner Memorial Library. She was instrumental in reviving the Friends group and soon began running book sales that raised funds to support the library. Over the course of her 30 years volunteering at the library Lillian raised $1,012,800, all of which supported library programming, book, and equipment purchases. Upon her retirement in 2016, many community members were shocked to find out that Lillian wasn’t retiring as an employee of the library, but as a volunteer. She was such a presence in the library building – spending 40+ hours a week there – that most library visitors assumed she was part of the staff. Those of us who had the opportunity to volunteer with Lillian, either on the Friends Board or in some capacity with the book sales will remember her as an unwavering advocate for the library.

We will remember Lillian’s endless energy and drive, incredible organizational skills, impeccable memory, and far-reaching expertise on sales strategies. Mostly we will remember her as a thoughtful friend, mentor and teacher to all of us.