Westlake Porter Public Library Honors Volunteers

Library Director Andrew Mangels presenting the award plaque to Robert “Bob” and Donna Manly

Westlake Porter Public Library named Robert “Bob” and Donna Manly this year’s Myrna Chelko Volunteer Award recipients at its annual Volunteer Recognition Reception on April 28.

The Myrna Chelko Award is presented to the volunteer who exemplifies its namesake’s volunteer spirit. Myrna Chelko was a long-time library volunteer known for her dedication to the library and her hard work. She helped found the Friends of Porter Public Library in 1972, and her service included roles as an officer of the group and a library board member.

The Manlys volunteer in the Book Nook and at the Friends Annual Book Sale. Donna started volunteering in the Book Nook in 2003 and Bob in 2004. They have been members of the Friends of Porter Public Library since 1981, and Donna served on the Friends board while the library operated out of the temporary location during the 1999 to 2002 building project. Combined, they have contributed over 2,500 hours of volunteer time.

The Friends Annual Book Sale is run entirely by volunteers. The Manlys assist on the days leading up to the event, during which sale materials are sorted and organized, and during the half-day sale. Donna Manly also provides baked goods for the other volunteers during the work and sale days.

“Bob and Donna well deserve this award,” said Library Director Andrew Mangels. “Their dedication and service exemplify the quote from Elizabeth Andrew: ‘Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they have the heart.’ We are grateful to them and to all our volunteers for helping us serve the community in the best possible way.”