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By Jill Runfola

Pictured (L-R) The Monessen Public Library board are Michelle Labatut, Liz Gregg, board president, Ginny Monaghan, Tamara Bojsen, Joe Bozik, on right, treasurer, and in the back row, Dave Zilka, library director (Missing from photo are Dawn McKechnie and John Golomb)

Mary P. Hirko, “The bug lady,” shows the kids the Asian Forest Scorpion here.

Monessen Mayor Ron Mozer with his wife Bonnie and library cataloguer Daniel Zyglowicz all stopped by to pay honor.

Deacon Weaver, age 8, of Charleroi has his face painted by Nicolas Vishio at the event. His mom, Nicole Weaver looks on.

The library displayed interesting historical photos of Monessen dating back to the 1900’s.

Monessen Public Library Director Dave Zilka oversees library operations and takes time here to pose for a photo.

The Monessen Public Library reached 90 years in service, and they went all out in celebrating the occasion on June 6, 2026, at their Anniversary Celebration event. The festivities were held from 9:00AM – 2:00PM and included library memorabilia, a library scavenger hunt, photos of Monessen back in the 1900’s, crafts for all ages (birthday cards and library memories), a birthday cake, cookies, with refreshments and fellowship. Attendees could try their luck at a 50/50, purse tips, and a drawing featuring baskets filled with pet supplies, bicentennial themed items, movie items, a picnic goodie basket, and more.

Another attraction for the kids was Mary P. Hirko, “The Bug Lady,” who drew a crowd of children as she took out various creepy crawlers for them to observe. This activity was not for the weak in stomach as she displayed such bugs as “the world’s largest cockroach.”

The Library Board of Trustees worked hard to hold the special event. Library Director Dave Zilka said, “It is very exciting for everyone here because 90 years of providing services and resources created a lot of memories for the community members. The library has been a cornerstone of Monessen and will continue to be an integral part of Monessen’s future!”

Monessen Mayor Ron Mozer also believes in community involvement and that the library is our future. He says that at a recent meeting the question came down to: “Where is the library going to be 30 years from now?”

The library will always be important to the community, and that is where they will continue to be years from now.

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