Several weeks back, North Haven Memorial Library staff and the town’s Poet Laureate Gabriella Brand asked residents: Do you know someone who makes life better in North Haven?

Locals were asked to write a short poem about this person and why they are appreciated. Then, on Saturday, Feb. 25, the poems would be shared with their subjects.

This “Share the Love” event, held at the library, was a success, as more than 15 invaluable members of the community were acknowledged in poems.

Brand pointed out that second-graders from North Haven schools penned “a variety of original poems in honor of police officers, builders and a school principal” while fifth-grader Jocelyn Gambardella read “Volunteer Firefighter,” which she wrote about her uncle, Jason Considine.

Also, former Southern Connecticut State University librarian Shirley Cavanaugh read a poem in honor of Brittany Pearson, reference librarian at the North Haven library.

Other poems were written by Gina Falcigno, in honor of local philanthropist Martha Culver; and Joanna Teodosio, who read a poem entitled “Champion of the Pets,” highlighting the work of animal activist Jane Ciarlione.  

Of course, Brand had to participate in the “Share the Love” project, as well. The Poet Laureate read a work entitled “First Class Special Delivery” in honor of Lisa Giglio, a member of the U.S Postal Service.