‘We quite literally could not do it without her’
Volunteer Hannelore Colasanto processes books like a pro
ASHBY >> Hannelore Colasanto started volunteering at the Ashby Free Public Library in 2009. She did not have a background in libraries but her attention to detail and precision made her perfect for processing books — or adding material to the library’s system.
What makes Colasanto special — besides her smile, her fantastic sense of humor, and her great stories — is that at 87 years old, she processes all of the library’s books, DVDS, and audio. She has been volunteering at the library for more than 15 years, and as Ashby Free Public Library Director, Heather Brodie Perry, says “we quite literally could not do it without her.”
Colasanto immigrated to the United States from Germany when she was 29 years old. She married, lived in Alexandria, Va. for 31 years, and later moved to Ashby.
She volunteered at the Ashby Elementary School, assisting in a third-grade classroom, and when they did not have enough work for her, they suggested she volunteer at the library, and the rest is history. Colasanto taught herself how to process books and is a master at her craft. She also taught herself how to repair books.
“The library literally could not exist with Hanne,” Perry echoed. “She has processed nearly every book on the shelves. And the ones she didn’t originally process, she has repaired.”
Colasanto says that book restoration just came natural to her, “however, some books cannot be restored 100 percent, and that disappoints me,” she added.
Her attention to detail extends to many things about the library, “she always notices when a tablecloth is off center, or a book looks ugly, or something just isn’t right,” Perry said. “She is also helpful when decorating the library and always brings everyone treats on the holidays.”
Perry believes that there are so many opportunities out there for people of every age to contribute to their community.
“The library benefits from Hanne’s skills and talents and the way she engages
monetary donations.
The renovated facility at 1703 Middlesex St. expands MVFB’S ability to meet the needs of more than 70,000 people each month and move four million pounds of food a year. Through its six hunger relief programs, MVFB provides nutritious food
to food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens and other programs that serve individuals and families in 32 communities in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
For a seasonal food drive flyer with favorite requested items, and more information on hosting a food drive, visit the MVFB at mvfb.org/how-to-help.
To schedule a tour of the new building, or for more information, visit mvfb.org or call 978454-7272.