By Jeff Dickens
For over 30 years, Debbi Gaspar’s infectious laugh could be heard throughout Reeves Library, as evidence of the enthusiasm she brought to her work. Debbi left an indelible mark on the lives of colleagues, faculty, staff, and students. She was a kindhearted individual, a good friend, and a great mentor who gave each person her undivided attention.
In her role as Interlibrary Loan and Circulation Coordinator, Debbi’s impact on faculty was tremendous, as evidenced by the number of faculty books that include her in the acknowledgments. She would also chide faculty good-naturedly, followed by her signature laugh, when they lost a book.
The number of former work-study students who visited her in the summer months shows the impact that she had on her students. Debbi took the contract that students signed seriously and made sure that they adhered to the rules. This, in turn, prepared them for their careers and work-life upon graduation.
Students trusted her, confided in her, and she would help them out whenever she could or direct them to someone who could help. Students often considered Debbi their “school mom” – their mom away from home with whom they could talk, assured of having a sympathetic ear, a calming response, and an uplifting laugh. She had several hand-drawn posters on the wall in her office from student workers proclaiming this special designation in their lives. She kept the posters up for years until the drawings faded.
With Debbi’s unexpected passing earlier this year, the librarians are determined to honor her years of service and impact on the Moravian community. The result is the creation of the Debra Gaspar Reading Nook. This space, in the north bay window seat area of the library (by the children’s section), will include comfortable seating, custom seat cushions for the window ledges, and a bookshelf for our best seller collection, which Debbi loved reading so much!
In memory of Debbi’s hard work and dedication to our community, please consider a gift to support the creation of the Reading Nook. Gifts may be made online, or by check made payable to Moravian College and sent to the Department of Development & Alumni Engagement (please note Debra Gaspar Reading Nook on the memo line).
The Debra Gaspar Reading Nook will be a welcoming space to celebrate Debbi’s years of service, commitment to education, and incredible work ethic. I hope you will join me and the Reeves Library staff to help make this space a reality. Thank you.
Warmest regards,
Rob Breckinridge
Executive Director of Development
Corporate, Foundation, and Government Relations