Elizabeth Putnam Sohier (1847-1926) could have spent her days sipping tea with other members of the Mayflower Society but instead used her wealth and social position to petition the Massachusetts legislature to establish the nation's first library commission. She was determined that every town and city should have a public library and accomplished that goal in just 14 years. She served as the commission's secretary for 36 years as well as on the Beverly library board of trustees. Come learn about this extraordinary woman known for her gentle demeanor, passion for libraries, and her hat. Karen Traub is the current secretary for the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Free and open to adults. Questions? Contact Ona at ridenour@noblenet.org.

View the full Monday Mornings schedule. Sponsored by the Friends of the Beverly Public Library.