Community gathers to celebrate career of longtime CPL employee Mary Maw

Maw is retiring from her job at the library after more than 35 years

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Caledon Public Library is saying farewell to one of its longest-serving employees.

On December 18, a ceremony was held at the Albion Bolton branch of the Caledon Public Library (CPL) to celebrate the career of Mary Maw, who is retiring at the end of the month. The ceremony was attended by Maw's family and friends, CPL staff, Town of Caledon staff, community members, non-profit leaders, the CPL board, the Friends of the Caledon Public Library and more. 

Maw is retiring as the CPL's Manager of Communications and Community Development, but started in 1979 as a student page. Over her career, she worked in the library's AV department, in circulation, children's services, and technical services, as a public service manager, Bolton branch manager, and in her current role.

Maw said she's fortunate to have been a part of a dynamic and esteemed organization like the CPL. She said she's also fortunate to have been able to work with so many people and organizations in the Caledon community.

“While I'm excited about the prospect of retirement and the opportunities it holds, I will undoubtedly miss the daily interactions and shared goals in my professional life,” she remarked in a speech she gave at the December 18 ceremony. “My hope is to leave knowing that I left behind a strong foundation that will continue to serve the library and his customers effectively. Once again, thank you for the incredible journey — I will forever hold the Caledon Public Library close to my heart.”

The CPL's CEO and Chief Librarian Colleen Lipp said Maw will be greatly missed by all she worked with. Lipp said Maw has contagious enthusiasm, amazing ideas, and is a true people person.

Lipp said there are so many CPL initiatives that couldn't have happened without Maw, such as Artful Caledon and Love Your Library Month. She said Maw was always ready to take on new challenges and excelled as her role shifted and changed over the years. 

“I often say those who work in libraries do so not because they are passionate about books, but because they are passionate about people, and I think Mary exemplifies that statement,” said Lipp. “She's also an incredibly skilled leader; she has built a strong and dedicated team, each just as passionate as she is.”

Lipp said Maw is a leader, role model, and friend who taught CPL staff so much about community and the art of communication.

“The CPL is a better library because of you,” said Lipp. 

Tony Maxwell, Chair of the Caledon Public Library Board, said he and the rest of the board are wishing Maw a fulfilling and joyous retirement. 

“I want to express our appreciation for Mary's commitment to excellence and her role in shaping CPL into the esteemed institution it is today,” said Maxwell.

Maw said in retirement, she's looking forward to spending more time with family and friends, going on RV adventures, volunteering in the community, and hopefully marching in the parade when the Toronto Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup.

“The very best part of working at CPL for all of these years has been working with the kindest, dedicated, most passionate colleagues who make a difference in our community every day,” said Maw.