Evening with an Author, Otis Library’s signature fundraiser, celebrated its 22nd year on Friday, April 24, 2026, with author Gregory Maguire. Long known for its distinguished author keynote, this year’s event held special significance as the Board of Directors and Event Steering Committee honored longtime Library advocate Carol Lahan—only the second community member recognized with the series, following Lottie B. Scott in 2024.

Carol’s connection to Otis Library spans more than 50 years. Since moving to Norwich in 1972 with her late husband, Attorney Michael Lahan, she has served in nearly every volunteer role—Friends member and President, Library Trustee, and EWA Steering Committee member—always leading with dedication and heart. Today, she continues that legacy at the Library by hosting Mental Health Mondays, a weekly drop-in program offering support and connection to anyone in need. A retired mental health professional with 38 years in private practice, Carol brings both expertise and compassion to this work.

As Attorney Gerald Smith, Jr. shared, “Carol’s true superpower is motivating those around her to become a better version of themselves—and she does so by leading through example. She never phones it in. When Carol commits, she commits fully. Her tireless efforts on behalf of this community inspire us all.”

Carol’s impact extends throughout Norwich. She has volunteered with the American Cancer Society, The Center for Hospice Care, and Summer Music at Harkness, and has served as both Board member and President of the Three Rivers College Foundation. Yet, when asked about her greatest accomplishment, her answer is simple: “It’s the family that Michael and I created—our daughters, Amanda and Melissa, their husbands, and our five grandchildren.”

In honor of Carol’s extraordinary service, the Friends of Otis Library have established a matching gift opportunity. All gifts made in her name to the Annual Appeal through June 30 will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $5,000—doubling your impact and helping sustain the programs she has championed for decades.