Elizabeth Gavin's bequest of just under $200,000 to the Manhasset Public Library is certainly munificent in every respect. As reported in the Manhasset Press, Ms. Gavin grew up in Manhasset and lived two blocks away from the Manhasset Public Library. She enjoyed going to the library which was a source of great pleasure for her. Although Ms. Gavin lived in Texas and had not lived in Manhasset for years, she was well aware that the library was expanding and "wanted to give back some of the joy she had received." Ms. Gavin, remembered, loved and cared for the Manhasset Public Library and showed her appreciation with this wonderful donation. Ms. Gavin's gift comes at a timely moment in the history of the Manhasset Public Library. Her legacy will be used in the new library and will benefit all members of Manhasset from our very youngest to our most senior citizens for many years.

Vincent Matrisciano, Sr.'s letter in the Manhasset Press dated October 14, 2004 proposes that Elizabeth Gavin's endowment to the Manhasset Public Library not be used for "unnecessary bells and whistles to the current expensive systems." Instead, Mr. Matrisciano suggests her gift "be better spent toward next year's library budget" in order to "give the Manhasset taxpayers some needed relief from this high priced library." Clearly, Mr. Matrisciano's interest is in the short-term benefit to him. The arrogance and stinginess in his suggestion to subvert Ms. Gavin's intent is shameless. In view of Ms. Gavin's generosity, the parsimoniousness and penury of spirit underlying Mr. Matrisciano's proposal is abysmal.

The people of Manhasset are known for their kindness and generosity towards their neighbors and community. It was in that spirit that Ms. Gavin's gift was given to the library. Her wishes should be honored.

Angela Trombetta