Library Fundraiser Honors CHQ. Co. Ambassador, May 21
By Jessica Schultz
Jim Roselle was a much-loved pillar of the Chautauqua community. As a radio personality with WJTN (now better known as MediaOne) he interviewed both local and worldly individuals on The Jim Roselle Show for many years. He also participated in multiple charities and always showed love to the James Prendergast Library.
Last year, during the first annual scavenger hunt event, his wife Kathleen Roselle said that one of Jim’s favorite things to say was, “What’s in your wallet… My library card!” (Like the Capital One commercial). So it’s understandable that the library continues to honor not just a wonderful community member, but a true library lover. This year, on May 21st from 11-3pm, honoring his legacy continues.
The Villager had a chance to speak with Anne Greene, Executive Director of the James Prendergast Library about this year’s event.
The Villager (V): This is the 2nd year of the Jim Roselle Scavenger Hunt. Could you elaborate on what the event is?
Anne (A): “Last year, we created a new fundraiser to honor Jim Roselle, a library lover, and community ambassador. This year is the second annual Jim Roselle Community Scavenger Hunt, which will take place on May 21 and coincides with the library’s Community Block Party. The Scavenger Hunt takes place around the library and downtown Jamestown, and the missions prompt participants to learn more about Jamestown’s history and culture while supporting the library. Jim loved his community, so we wanted to create a fundraiser and event that had that kind of spirit! This year, we have included historical photos, and participants have to locate the current locations of the pictures. The cost is $20 per team, and you can have as many members on your team as you wish. Teams can register now and on the day of the event. Tickets are available online at http://www.prendergastlibrary.org/scavenger-hunt/. In addition to the scavenger hunt tickets, library board members will also sell library t-shirts designed by local artist Ashely Ordines and library tote bags. There will also be a 50/50 drawing. All proceeds benefit the library’s outreach programs.”
V: How does the event correspond with the Jamestown Block Party that is happening at the same time?
A: “Both events allow visitors to explore the Jamestown community. The Scavenger Hunt allows participants to explore Jamestown’s past, and the Block Party allows attendees to explore Jamestown’s future! By bringing together local organizations, we hope to strengthen community ties and connect people with meaningful resources.”
V: How do these events benefit the library and the community?
A: “The Scavenger Hunt fundraiser supports the library’s expanding outreach programs, including the new Summer Reading the Parks program. The library will visit Allen, Bergman, Lillian Dixon, and Jackson-Taylor parks on a rotating basis Thursdays throughout the summer with reading crafts and activities, free books thanks to a grant from Cummins, and games. The Block Party allows local nonprofits to reach new audiences for their services and allows attendees to learn about programs and resources that they may not have known. It’s also an opportunity to come together, play games, craft, create, and enjoy a community atmosphere. We want to thank all the organizations who have signed up to participate and our sponsors, Lane Women’s Health Group, Spectrum Eyecare, PACE Promotional Solutions, and The Chautauqua Center.”
V: Are any other events planned for the rest of the year?
A: “The library always has plenty going on! Right now, we are preparing for our 2022 Summer Reading Program which will run from June 25 through August 20. We will offer events and programs for all ages, including story times, teen tie-dying, and lectures by the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy. Our new Murray L. Bob Community Education Initiative brings community organizations to the library to conduct classes and run programs. Pearl City Clay House will be at the library for a Zine Workshop on June 7 at 5pm (registration required), and the Audubon will hold Monarch butterfly lectures on May 25 and July 20 at 5:30 pm. All programs are free and open to the public. The library’s full calendar of events can be found at https://www.prendergastlibrary.org/events/”
Thank you, Anne, and the staff of the James Prendergast Library for creating an event that both honors a local legend and seeks to promote community togetherness. Jim Roselle always believed in the community and supporting its growth and it’s fantastic to see that legacy honored with an event that does both.