Family, friends, business and government leaders gathered at the New Carlisle Public Library on April 22,2017 to honor and dedicate the adult wing of the Library to Joan M. Steinlage. There was standing room only for the guests assembled there.

Musician Kevin Mulhall played classical guitar music as the group gathered to pay their respects. Library Board of Trustees Dick Zsambok, served as Master of Ceremonies for the formal portion of event that started at 11:30. He introduced Dr. Andrew Wright, Pastor of the New Carlisle Church of the Brethren, who led the fellowship in a prayer that celebrated the life of Steinlage and the work she was accomplished as the President of the New Carlisle Board of Trustees.

Steinlage was instrumental in securing a federal grant that paid for almost half of the cost of building what is now the adult wing of the New Carlisle Library. Before her work on behalf of the community and the Board of Trustees, the library had been housed in a 61-year-old house at 227 S. Main Street. The new facility that she secured the funding for provided the community with three times the space of the previous facility and allowed the library to offer meeting and activity rooms, computer work stations, and plenty of rooms for books.

Zsambok continued his presentation by recognizing the wonderful work that Joan did as a champion and friend of the library and the New Carlisle Community. He next introduced County Commissioner Lowell McGlothin, who presented the family with a proclamation from the Clark County Commissioners in recognition of her work not only as a member of the library board, but at her church and for the entire New Carlisle Community.

New Carlisle Mayor Mike Lowrey recognized the importance of the library to the community by providing educational resources and programs that would not be available otherwise. He noted that the New Carlisle Community should be proud of the library because it outshines most libraries for a community of our size.

Joan’s husband, Dale Steinlage spoke about her dedication to her community and the library. He noted that Joan worked hard to provide positive improvements for the community; however, she never sought out recognition for her work. He added, “She would say that she helped but insisted that others did the work. Joan felt that regular actions resulted in extraordinary accomplishments.”

Zsambok wrapped up the service by saying “This gathering serves as a visible reminder of the difference one person can make in the lives of others, and in the lives of a community.” Zsambok asked Dale Steinlage to return to the podium and the two unveiled a plaque that will hang in the adult wing of the library in commemoration to the work Joan did. He said, “It is with great honor that the New Carlisle Public Library hereby name the adult wing the Joan M. Steinlage Wing.”

They also unveiled a photograph that will hang in the Thomas Crabtree Meeting Room.

Zsambok also issued a personal challenge to the crowd. “I ask that you use her example of community leadership and find your place to become involved. Look around and see where you can give back. Find your passion and dive in.”

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First Group 2x2
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