Pat Hazlehurst retired after 25 years directing—many say revitalizing—the Cobleigh Public Library in Lyndonville, Vermont. She and husband Leighton then moved to Hood River in 2003 to be closer to their children. Within weeks of arriving in town she walked into Hood River County Library Director June Knudson’s office and asked what she could do to help.

Pat became President of the Friends of the Library, started Hood River Reads, restarted Sunday lectures, raised money for summer kids reading program.

Her energy and ideas enhanced the library and the community. Pat died February 2010 at age 74. This year some Friends of the Library members, whom Pat inspired, started the Pat Hazlehurst Endowment for the Hood River County Library.

These donors are offering a challenge gift of up to $10,000 to match public contributions. Grant recommendation will be decided by an advisory committee composed of The Hood River Library director, Friends of the Hood River Library president and a Gorge Community Foundation board member.

Contributions to the fund can be made by clicking the Donate Now button or mailed to Gorge Community Foundation, PO Box 1711, Hood River, OR 97031

Photo: Even on a European vacation, Pat visited the library.