When George and Connie Krell had free time, they spent it at the Dove Library. They loved the facility so much that they decided to donate $100,000 so Carlsbad City Libraries could purchase new reading area furniture and large-print books.

Sadly, Connie passed away earlier this year, before the furniture could be installed along with a plaque in their honor. This month, library staff completed the work and purchased 175 large-print books for children, teens and adults, with more on the way.

Last week, the library held a ceremony to thank the Krells. George, a World War II veteran, brought his friends from his senior-living community and made brief remarks in the patio. He said he and Connie lived in many parts of the country and were regulars at local libraries. That said, he called the Carlsbad City Library system one of the finest in the U.S. 

"It's unfortunate that Connie couldn’t be here," George said. "She always enjoyed this library system."

Thank you to the Krells for your generosity, which will help spread the joy of reading for generations to come.