Librarian Mary Moroska will retire on June 30, 2015 after 23 years of unwavering commitment to the children of Roslyn School. As a farewell, on May 28 she read The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce to the entire student body along with teachers, administrators, and library volunteers who had assembled in the gymnasium for the occasion.

This captivating tale of the love of and the transformative power of books was told through the life of Morris Lessmore, a man who lost his personal library in a storm and went on to dedicate his life to caring for books and sharing them with others. As Morris Lessmore aged, the books in turn cared for him. A key theme of the book is the importance of the story in itself, transcending even books. “‘Everyone’s story matters’ said Morris. And all the books agreed.”

Principal Nick Katalifos wholeheartedly thanked Ms. Moroska for her contribution to Roslyn. He noted that she has been one of the most central figures in the school, reaching every child through their years at Roslyn and that the library is the most powerful symbol of literacy, the foundation of a child’s education.

Vice-Principal Rosana Caplan presented Mary Moroska with flowers and a handmade card containing a heartfelt sentiment from the children.

Ms. Moroska explained to the children that just as they graduate from Kindergarten to grade one, and from grade six to high school, she will be graduating to life. And so it is time to say good-bye to our dear Librarian as she moves on to write her next chapter!

For those who wish to do so, donations can be made in honour of Mary Moroska through the Roslyn School Foundation to benefit Roslyn’s library. Click here to donate online through our online donation partner CanadaHelps.org.

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