05/17/2026
The library bookstore and Friends of Patten Free Library have lost a very special member. Margaret Totten passed away on March 20, 2026 and we are all poorer for it. While Margaret was never one to show up for Friends meetings, she was the first to ask "How can I help?" Margaret and her husband Richard started volunteering at Library Book Sales in the mid 1970s. For years the Friends could count on the Totten's big truck and willingness to move and set up tables for the sale. Margaret would accompany Richard, with a smile on her face, ready to load and unload boxes of books. Then the couple would show up after each sale to help pack up, clean up, and return tables.
Margaret was a modest woman, who when asked, could be counted on to listen and give practical advice. When the Book Storage Room flooded, Margaret not only helped with clean up but quietly mentioned that she and Richard had a saw mill and could supply us with lumber to get book boxes off the floor and out of the damp. It didn't take long for the Friends to accept this gift, which is still in use.
Margaret's generosity, gentle kindness, and love of the Patten Free Library will be remembered and appreciated for years to come. May she rest in peace.
