Honoring the Burany Bequest

In 2017, the Friends of Elm Grove Library received a $50,000 bequest from the estate of Frank and Helen Burany. Long-time residents may remember the couple as former owners of the Sleepy Hollow Motel in Elm Grove as well as other properties in the area. From their humble early days this generous couple celebrated 75 years of marriage before Helen passed away in 2012 and Frank in 2016. Their planned estate gift to our library was an unexpected and wonderful surprise!

This year, Board members decided the gift would be best used by updating the Adult and Young Adult Reading Areas of the library to enhance our library experience for patrons and staff. Walls were painted, new furniture was selected, electrical outlets for charging devices were added, and directional signage was installed throughout the library.

The legacy of Frank and Helen Burany lives on through their incredible gift which enriches a strong and viable library for the Village of Elm Grove. The Burany’s son, Richard, his family and friends joined us for a commemorative event in October.