With mystery writer Ann Cleeves as guest speaker and honoree, the Friends of the Library’s fourth annual Gala, held on February 3, was a glittering success. The evening began with Ann greeting her audience for the talk portion of the evening at the library’s entrance. In answer to Friends president Roberta Isleib’s interview questions, Ann spoke of her many writing years toiling in obscurity. Her first Vera book, The Crow Trap, was discovered in a thrift store bin by a television producer, looking for something to read on holiday.

Ann Cleeves would, of course, become the New York Times bestselling author behind two hit television series — the BBC’s Shetland, starring Douglas Henshall, and ITV’s Vera, staring Brenda Blethyn. Recently, to her long list of awards, she added an OBE in the 2022 New Year Honours List, bestowed by the Queen, after cheekily insisting that the recognition go “for services to Reading and Libraries.”

Following the talk, the celebrated Gala honoree, our wonderful sponsors, and audience members stepped into the Library’s Palm Garden, which had been transformed into a fairyland. Plentiful hors d’oeuvres and libations were passed, while Ann charmed Friends who had gathered to celebrate their little pink library.

For their support of the event, we thank our corporate sponsors:  Preferred Properties, Local Guy Design, Truman & Company, Fautos Food Palace, The Mansion on the Sea, Publix Supermarkets Charities, Blue Marlin Jewelry, It’s Social Time Somewhere, Hands On Gallery, droneandphoto.com, and Ambrosia Inn, as well as the following individuals: Tom & Kitty Clements, John & Carolyn Sangston, Kathleen Bratton & Brian Wruble, Dennis & Judy Dutterer, Roberta Isleib & John Brady, Susan & Kevin McGreevy, and Pat Kennedy. Proceeds from the Gala support the library’s collections and services.