Library Centennial July Honorees: Ann and George Coulter
By Susan Stone
Members of the Pawling Library, in keeping with our determination to honor those who have been instrumental in the success of this much-loved community institution during this centennial year, will honor Ann and George Coulter in July. The Coulters, mother and son, have had a famed and storied influence over the Library’s founding and, some forty years later, over its expansion and the move to its current location on Broad Street in the village. Through their active leadership, the Coulters contributed to creating this lasting legacy to life-long learning for community members in every age and stage of life.
Ann Coulter, among the original Library board members, served on its Executive Committee in 1921. She was listed as its Treasurer when the Library received its charter from the New York State Department of Education. Dr. George Coulter served as President of the Library Board of Trustees in the early 1960’s. Under his steady guidance, the Library, which since its founding had occupied space within other municipal buildings, took a giant leap forward in its development. Dr. Coulter influenced and oversaw the actual construction of the Library’s own building in its current location, affording its patrons an enlarged Library space with improved facilities. The move made it possible to expand the number of volumes offered, along with enhancements to the Library’s programs and services.
The Coulters were prominent, civic-minded members of the Pawling community, donating time and expertise to many causes. It is because of their dedicated leadership to the Library and the community that the Library will honor them in July with a display in the main Library building.
