It was the celebration of the season December 6, when the Aurora Public Library Foundation held its annual Winter Gala. This event culminates the year’s philanthropy efforts, bringing community members together to celebrate meaningful connections, recognize exceptional individuals, and further support the Library’s mission through a charitable auction. This year we also celebrated the Foundation’s 25th anniversary with a look back on all the amazing work that’s been done. Work that couldn’t be done without you!
As guests arrived at the beautiful Paramount Theater Meyer Ballroom, they were greeted by holiday carolers from the Waubonsee Community College Chorale. The room, overlooking the Fox River, was decorated with balloons and arrangements in shades of silver, blue, and green. “The Meyer Ballroom at the Paramount Theatre has provided our board and staff with an opportunity to really celebrate this year!” said foundation manager, Jordan. “We were thrilled to welcome 50 more donors than we have in years past.” As executive director, Michaela described it, “The energy is amazing in a room full of library supporters!”
To celebrate 25 years of service to the Aurora community, a special video of Foundation highlights was displayed during the event. Guests heard from current and former Foundation Board Members about what their service meant to them and relived memories of some pretty big accomplishments, including the construction of the Santori Library building and the fundraising efforts for the new Bookmobile! We also had the honor of receiving a formal proclamation from congressman Bill Foster. “The proclamation recognizes the Aurora Public Library Foundation as an esteemed organization in the Aurora Community and celebrates our many successes,” added Jordan.
After dinner, guests turned their attention to the stage for the awards ceremony. This year’s Thomas J. Weisner Excellence in Educational Collaboration Award was presented to Marilyn Weisner, who spent her working life bringing people together to make the world a better place. Brigit Reuland and family received The Richard and Gina Santori Lifelong Learning Inspiration Award for their 70 years of service to the Aurora community. And lastly, Dara Nelson and Robin Schaff were honored with The Kelly McCleary Community Service Award for their extensive community service through the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois. “My favorite part of the Gala every year is the presentation of awards to people in our community who work so hard to make Aurora a great place to live and work, and who are an inspiration to all of us,” added Michaela.
As the night carried on, guests enjoyed music and dancing with the DJ, took photos with friends in the photo booth, and browsed items up for bid in the silent auction. Available items included a stunning Tiffany & Co. Necklace, a flat top Blackstone grill, and a trip to the MLB Spring Training Camp. Funds raised during the auction will go towards Enrichment Projects at our Eola Road and West Branches and be used for designing low-sensory spaces, purchasing new makerspace equipment, and more. It was one last opportunity for donors to contribute to the efforts of the Foundation, while taking home something fun for themselves!
The Winter Gala would not have been possible without the help of our sponsors. A special thank you to: Studio GC, Alarm Detection Systems, Nila Basile Family, Clear Perspectives, Old National Bank, McCleary Family, Woodforest Bank, Old Second Bank, Waubonsee College, Earthmovers Credit Union, Penn Entertainment, Aurora Alderman Nunez, GreenState Credit Union, NuMark Credit Union, State senator Linda Holmes, Obbligato Business Partners, Coffman Trucks, Nicole and Keith Benziger, Sonia Garcia State Farm, Melan Mind LLC, Hallet Movers, Aurora alderman Michael B. Saville, Aurora alderman Edward Bugg, Aurora Fast Print, Yellow Bird Books, DJ’s For You, CamMi Photo Booth, Lazy Dog Restaurants, and Aurora alderwoman Patty Smith. We appreciate your continued support.
As the 2025 Winter Gala came to a close, we were once again reminded that the strength of the Aurora Public Library Foundation lies in our community’s steadfast support. Thank you for celebrating 25 remarkable years with us, and for helping us build an even brighter future. If you’d like to make a year-end contribution, please visit aplfoundationil.org or contact the Foundation at 630-264-4240.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.