August 28, 2020, Update:

The Ridgefield Library, working in conjunction with our 2020 Gala honorees, Eileen and Jay Walker, has decided to postpone its 1920s-themed Great Expectations event scheduled for November 7, 2020. Originally planned for late May 2020, this is the second time we have felt it imperative the event be delayed in response to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

The Library feels this decision is in the best interests of the honorees, who deserve an event free from the controversy of the pandemic and focused on their accomplishments, and the Library staff and attendees whose health could be compromised by a physical gathering. The Library also believes that a virtual event would not do the many contributions the Walkers have made to the Ridgefield and global communities justice. As long as the option for an event where we can celebrate them in person remains a possibility we will pursue it.

Consequently the Gala will now be held at the Library on Saturday, May 22, 2021 from 6:00 to 11:00 PM, with the full support of the Walkers, assuming community consensus on virus protocols, along with State and Local guidelines, align with our proposal for the event. The Library Board appreciates the effect this decision might have on the plans of Gala sponsors and Library supporters who had planned on attending first the Gala in May and now November, 2020. We will work to ensure that the new date will not compromise their ability to honor the Walkers with a unique and worthy celebration.

Please contact Laureen Bubniak, Director of Development, at [email protected] with any questions.

Great Expectations:  An evening affair to benefit the Ridgefield Library

This year’s gala will have a Roaring Twenties theme.

Honoring Eileen & Jay Walker with the
2020 Hope H. Swenson Visionary Award

NEW DATE: Saturday, May 22, 2021
6:00 to 11:00 PM
The Ridgefield Library
472 Main Street

Ridgefield is fortunate to be home to countless leaders and visionaries who give tirelessly to make our community a better place to live.  Each year, the Ridgefield Library honors such individuals with The Hope H. Swenson Visionary Award.

We are pleased to announce that the 2020 recipients of the 7th Annual Swenson Visionary Award are Eileen and Jay Walker for their embodiment of the Library’s vision and mission in their lives as well as their work and philanthropy benefiting Ridgefield and the larger national and global communities.

For sponsorship information click here

For ticket information click here 

For advertising information click here

or contact Laureen Bubniak, Director of Development, at [email protected] or  203.438.2282 ext. 11029