ASHVILLE — The Ashville Free Library is grappling with a significant loss following the death of Libby, the library’s cherished feline companion, who passed away on Tuesday.
Libby’s journey began in 2009 when she was brought to the library to address a persistent mouse problem. At the time, Tabetha Butler, then the library director, had been searching for a suitable cat for two years. The serendipitous discovery came through Butler’s sister, who found Libby, a stray, and brought her to the library in January of that year.
Though her exact age was uncertain, a veterinarian estimated Libby was around five or six years old when she arrived, making her approximately 20 or 21 years old at the time of her passing. For the past 15 years, Libby was an integral part of the library’s atmosphere, affectionately known as its queen.
Libby’s role extended beyond pest control; she became a beloved fixture known for her warm and welcoming demeanor. “She greeted everyone who came in,” Butler reminisced. “As soon as she heard the doorbell, she would rush to the entrance. She even had a knack for finding cozy spots, like laying in contractors’ toolboxes, only to move aside once they showed her affection.”
Her presence was especially impactful on the younger visitors. Libby had a unique ability to calm children, making the library a more serene place. “Children would come to the library not just for the books, but to see the cat,” Butler noted. “If they got too loud, Libby would retreat to the adult fiction section. I’d tell the children that if they settled down, Libby would return, and she always did.”
Libby’s charm extended to summer residents who would often inquire about her before catching up with library staff. “The person who abandoned her in 2009 could never have known the treasure they were discarding,” Butler reflected.
Current library director Kristina Benson is spearheading plans for a memorial to honor Libby. An upcoming outdoor reading space will feature a garden named “Libby’s Garden,” adorned with native plants. Additionally, a memorial wall inside the library may display portraits and photographs of Libby, contributed by patrons who have reached out with condolences.
While the library may consider adopting a new cat in the spring, Butler acknowledged that Libby’s unique presence would be irreplaceable. “Libby was more than a pet; she was a beloved ambassador for the library,” Butler said. “She welcomed everyone with open paws and will be dearly missed. She brought love and peace until the very end.”
The Ashville Free Library will always remember Libby’s legacy and the joy she brought to countless visitors over the years.
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