On Saturday, September 7, 2024, the Harborfields Public Library and the Greenlawn Centerport-Historical Association marked a major milestone: the 100th anniversary of the building at 31 Broadway. The building opened in 1924 and originally operated as the Greenlawn School. It changed functions as the decades passed, becoming the Broadway School in the 1950s and the current home for the library in 1976.
The festivities included speeches from notables including Toby Kissam, a respected expert on Greenlawn history with deep family ties to the community; Town Clerk Andrew Raia, Town Councilman and one-time Harborfields High School Principal, Dr. Dave Bennardo; Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Rory Manning; and several other important individuals, including those directly associated with the library.
A time capsule that had been sealed since 1924 was unveiled as part of the special event.There was also a dedication of a historical marker (sponsored by the Friends of the Harborfields Library), and performances from a quartet of Harborfields High School Choir students and a contingent of HHS Marching Band members.
Library Director Ryan Athanas shared that, "100 years ago the dedication of the building included a marching band playing the national anthem and other patriotic pieces. Having our students play the same music 100 years later made the event extra special."
"Greenlawn and the Harborfields Central School District have such a rich, intertwined history, and music has always played a central role in that story," said Harborfields High School Marching Band Director, Allison Scilla. "I'm so happy that we were invited and able to participate in this celebration to uphold that tradition and legacy."
There is a wonderful relationship that exists between the schools, community, and library within Harborfields. Here’s to another 100 years of success and collaboration!