Community Corner
Westfield Memorial Library Celebrates 2025’s Top Patron
The Fern family checked out close to 1,400 books in 2025.
Westfield, NJ - February 18, 2026 - Westfield Memorial Library is delighted to announce that Westfield resident Missy Fern and her family have been recognized as the library’s Top Patron of 2025, borrowing an impressive 1,352 books over the course of the year.
“Libraries thrive because of engaged readers like the Fern family,” said Library Director Allen McGinley. “Their love of learning and curiosity about the world embody the very spirit of what public libraries are all about. We’re proud to celebrate their commitment to reading and education.”
Throughout 2025, the library circulated more than 350,000 books across all formats, underscoring Westfield’s dedication to reading and lifelong learning. The most borrowed categories were picture books and books for emerging readers, representing nearly one-third of the total physical books borrowed.
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“When you look at the library’s statistics from last year, it is abundantly clear that the library is the community’s destination for early childhood literacy through our collection and programming” said Associate Director Liz Kennedy. “We pride ourselves in being family-friendly and nurturing the love of reading.”
The Ferns’ accomplishment was recognized with a limited edition tote bag filled with an assortment of literary gifts hand-picked by Senior Librarian Marge Barkan.
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Residents of all ages are encouraged to further explore the library’s collections in the new year by setting personal reading goals, joining book discussion groups, or simply discovering something unexpected on the shelves.
For more information about upcoming programs, reading challenges, and services, visit wmlnj.org or call 908-789-4090.
About Westfield Memorial Library
Westfield Memorial Library is a public library dedicated to providing free and equitable access to information, resources, and cultural experiences for residents of Westfield and the surrounding community. Through innovative programming and responsive services, the Library advances literacy, lifelong learning, and civic engagement.
