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October, 2025

Dear Friend of the Library:

Not long ago, we received a message that touched our hearts. Jen D’Eletto, a devoted teacher and longtime library user, reached out to tell us what the library has meant to her, her family, and her students over the years. Her words were filled with gratitude, joy, and hope—reminding us that the library is so much more than a building. It is a place where generations come together to learn, grow, and belong. 

As we enter this season of giving, we want to share Jen’s story with you, because it reflects the impact your support makes possible.

The Library That Grew With Me

“It is remarkable how, as we move through different stages of life, the places we rely on grow and evolve with us. For me, the Wissahickon Library has been one of those rare constants—shaping my journey as a parent, patron, and an educator.

I first began visiting the library shortly after moving to Blue Bell nearly 21 years ago, when I was a new mother still finding my place in the community. In those early days, the library quickly became a source of joy, discovery, and connection for my children and me. We attended story times, delighted in special programs, hunted for Easter eggs, and cherished the chance to read to therapy dogs. Those experiences not only nurtured my children’s love of books but also created lasting family memories.

About a decade later, my relationship with the library shifted. When I began tutoring two local students, I discovered the quiet study rooms—spaces that provided the perfect setting for focused, productive learning. What started as a simple convenience soon became an essential part of my teaching routine.

Then came the pandemic. As homes transformed into classrooms and families navigated the challenges of remote learning, my tutoring workload grew exponentially. When the world slowly reopened, I knew I needed to rethink my approach. Rather than spending hours commuting from house to house, I wanted to devote my time to instruction, support more students, and better serve their families. The answer was clear: the Wissahickon Valley Public Library.

Its welcoming and versatile spaces allowed me to expand my tutoring practice while staying rooted in the heart of our community. My students and I move easily between quiet study rooms, large tables, cozy couches, and sometimes even the floor—wherever the lesson takes us. Surrounded by books, technology, and support, I can tailor my instruction to meet each child’s unique needs, while the staff’s warmth makes the library feel like a true extension of the classroom. Beyond tutoring, the library not only gives me a quiet space to prepare lessons and access to valuable online teaching resources, but I’m also a familiar face at the circulation desk, often leaving with a stack of books each month to bring into my classroom to share with my students.

For me, the Wissahickon Library has always been more than just a building filled with books—it has been a partner in parenting, a resource for teaching, and a hub of community connection. It has grown alongside me and my family, meeting our needs at every stage of life. I am deeply grateful for the countless ways it enriches both my personal and professional journey.” 

For so many of us, the library has been a constant companion through life’s seasons. It’s where we discovered favorite authors, where our children fell in love with stories, and where we’ve found comfort in a welcoming space that belongs to everyone. At WVPL, we love serving families like Jen’s, where grandparents bring their grandchildren to story hour, and parents find quiet moments to study or seek new opportunities. These connections are what make our library the heart of the community.

Thanks to your generous support, we’ve already taken important steps forward—repaving the parking lot, upgrading lighting, and repairing the sewer system—making sure our library is safe and accessible for all. But now, we’re ready to do something even more meaningful: create an inviting interior with welcoming spaces for tutoring, studying, and community gatherings. Imagine children receiving extra help after school in bright, comfortable rooms… neighbors meeting for book clubs or lifelong learning programs… families finding a place to connect. That vision can become a reality—with your help.

Your continued support is vital. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of your neighbors, friends, and family. Together, we can ensure that the library remains not only a place of books, but also a place of belonging and hope. Please consider making a donation to our annual appeal today. You can give using the DONATE button above, or mail your gift to: WVPL, 650 Skippack Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422. 

Thank you for being such a cherished part of our library family. With your generosity, we’re building more than a library—we’re building a legacy that will enrich lives for generations to come.

With warmest regards,  

Anne Frank, Library Director

P.S. What would you like to see in your library’s future? Your ideas guide us as we shape a space that reflects the needs of our whole community, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly at 215-642-1320 or afrank@wvpl.org.