JOAN S. GROTT

Joan S. Grott, 58, Director of the Mamaroneck Library, died July 18 of complications from breast cancer.

Born in Canada on July 30, 1946, she graduated from St. John's University with a Master of Library Science degree. Ms. Grott first worked at Tarrytown's Warner Library in youth services and served eight years as the library union representative and two years as president of the village municipal union. From 1981-88 she was director of the Nyack Library where she improved funding and enhanced the library's role in the community. During her tenure an addition and renovation increased circulation. From 1984-1986 she served as President of the Ramapo Catskill Library System.

Ms. Grott became director of the Mamaroneck Library in 1988. Through her efforts the Mamaroneck Library District was formed. She helped create awareness for legislation in New York State so that libraries could form their own funding districts. A member of the New York State Public Library Directors' Association and the American Library Association, Ms. Grott was past president of the Westchester Public Library Director's Association and was one of the first women in the Mamaroneck Rotary Club, where she also served a term as president.

Ms. Grott was a champion of intellectual freedom; the public library was its forum. Her professional integrity was beyond reproach. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving family: her husband, Joel Azerrad; mother, Audrey Grott; sister, Judith Grott Lewis; brother-inlaw, Grant Lewis, Jr.; nephew, Grant Lewis, III; and niece, Jill Lewis. Her sister, Beverley, and father, Justin V., predeceased her.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 31, 2 pm at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Mt. Pleasant Avenue at Boston Post Road. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society, another health-related charity or to the Mamaroneck Public Library. DWYER FUNERAL HOME, 90 North Broadway, Tarrytown, 914-631-0621.

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