Library Staff, Patrons Say Goodbye to Director Vocelli

Nov. 16 is Avon Free Public Library Director Virginia Vocelli's last day after 24 years working here.

"I'm feeling a little frantic because there are some things I want accomplished before I'm done," Vocelli, a West Hartford resident, said.

Staff, board members, town officials and library patrons gathered Thursday night in the library community room to say goodbye and honor her career. The celebration was rescheduled from Wednesday night due to the weather.

President of the Friends of the Avon Library Barbara Leonard, Board of Trustees President Mary LaBelle Suter, Avon Town Manager Brandon Robertson and Avon Historical Society members Terri Wilson and Pam Fahey said some remarks before Vocelli spoke to the crowd.

"It was a lot of residents and former board members," Vocelli said.

Musicians Luiz and Bridget Demouracastro, who have performed at the library and played around the world, also were there.

"I was touched they both came," she said.

The person who will likely be serving as the next library director was there. Library staff asked Patch to hold off on publishing the individual's name until it is publicly announced soon.

As Vocelli finishes up at the library and prepares for a vacation to Saint Thomas with her husband to celebrate her retirement, she is optimistic that she is leaving the library in good hands.

"I'm excited for the library and its future," Vocelli said.

Did you take photos at the retirement party? Upload them here!