Brooklyn Library Local 1482 Celebrates 50th Anniversary

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Local 1482 President speaks at the local’s 50th anniversary celebration. Photo: Tryating Photography

By JOSEPH LOPEZ

The members of Brooklyn Library Guild Local 1482 have been a dedicated part of the community, serving kids, senior citizens, and everyone in between for 50 years.

Over 100 guests from various DC 37 locals came together to celebrate Local 1482’s momentous anniversary on Nov. 11 at Buckley’s restaurant in the Marine Park section of Brooklyn.

“If the work we’ve done during the first 50 years of the local is any indication, I can only imagine the amazing things we have in store for the next 50,” said Eileen Muller, who has acted as president of the local since 2002.  Larry Brandwine, the first president of 1482, and Marlene Rosenberg, who was president for most of the local’s existence, including during the dark days of budget constraints that demonstrated a true need for the union to band together and fight back, also attended.

Proclamations were presented by Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and, on behalf of the City Council, member and lifelong Brooklyn resident Alan Mai. A special plaque was DC 37’s national union, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, also presented a special plaque to mark the local’s achievements.

“Fifty years ago, the stereotype of a librarian was a lady who was more likely to say ‘shush’ than to engage with a library-goer,” Muller said.  Libraries have evolved over the decades with the changing technologies, embracing everything from ebooks to computers with internet capabilities, she said.

Singer Ria Alexander entertained the guests with old school pop and R&B tunes, while the Praise Dancers from the More Grace Redemptive Center of Brooklyn thrilled with their storytelling through miming and dance.

 

 

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