Growing up at the Donora library changed siblings’ lives

By Max Robinette
mrobinette@yourmvi.com
You can find life’s great stories at the library — sometimes you don’t even need to open a book.
The Donora Public Library recently launched a year-end fundraiser and to highlight their work, the library told the story of Bronx librarian Christina Gavin, internationally acclaimed artist Cy Gavin and former library director Mary Olivieri.
Christina and Cy grew up in Donora. Their Puerto Rican mother and Bermudian father moved to the area from New Jersey and worked for Pittsburgh Paint and Glass.
During their childhoods, the siblings discovered reading and a second home at the local library. In Olivieri, they found a quiet mentor.
Olivieri led the Donora Library for decades. Those who knew her say she was a student of her craft, with the customary sternness of a library veteran. Mary was 87 when she passed away Jan. 27, 2015.
“She was ‘Marian the Librarian,’” current library Director Mark Boyer said. “She was what you picture when you think of a librarian — glasses low on her nose and telling people they talked too loud.”

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