Library honors Colleen Larsen and Donna Applegate with Wisner Awards

Warwick — It was a beautiful evening last Thursday as supporters of the Albert Wisner Public Library gathered at Chateau Hathorn to honor two of its most diligent and energetic volunteers. Colleen Larsen, president of the Friends of the Albert Wisner Public Library, and Donna Applegate, president of the Albert Wisner Public Library Board, were honored with the inaugural Wisner Award, presented by the library’s Foundation. The Wisner Award recognizes extraordinary volunteer effort. “This is the recognition of their extraordinary efforts on behalf of the library,” said Library Director Rosemary Cooper. “We are beginning a new tradition with this award.” Larsen has volunteered with the library’s Friends for the past six years, currently serving as president. Under Larsen’s leadership the membership of the Friends has increased from about 400 to more than 1,000, according to Cooper. The Friends also have increased financial support of the library, donating $5,500 to the operating budget, much of which goes to the Summer Reading Program. The group also has donated $25,000 to the Foundation’s capital campaign. “As president of the Friends, Colleen spearheaded a successful grassroots campaign in support of our new library,” said Cooper. “From planning for the highly successful Moonlight Over Warwick gala fundraiser to signing up new members for the Friends at a table in the library, Colleen steps in wherever her support is needed.” Applegate has been a trustee of the library’s Board since 2002 and its president since 2003. “Her leadership, expertise and enthusiasm have been invaluable in the library’s journey to build a new facility,” said Cooper. “Every step of the way, Donna has lent incredible support, from finding a site, to hiring an architect, determining a building budget, passing a referendum and finally to our groundbreaking.” Applegate was a positive force in the creation of the library’s foundation, according to Cooper. She is a founding member and serves as its chair. She also plays a very active role on the advancement committee. Another founding member of the foundation, Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton, presented the Wisner Award to Applegate. Village of Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard presented the award to Larsen.