Greetings:
I would like to begin by humbly thanking the Grand Architect of the Universe for blessing both my family and my PHA family with another fruitful year. Thank you to the Most Worshipful Grandmaster Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Sr. for appointing me to run the Grand Lodge Library and to R:.W:. Edward Swire who has provided me with limitless support, guidance and direction in taking on this monumental task. I would also like to give a heartfelt thank you to R:.W:. Walter King, who has served as a most trusted and knowledgeable business advisor any individual seeking to start a business could have.
Thank you to my Associate Librarians Sister Valerie Roman-
My brothers, in a short period we have changed the face of the Grand Lodge Library. Our vision was to create the premiere Masonic Store and Masonic Reference Library/Educational Space in New York City. The journey began in November 2009 and since January 2010, without any operating capital, I am proud to say we are well on our way.
Through the hard work of brothers of the craft, personal donations and at no monetary cost to the Grand Lodge, we were able to:
- Fix the hole in the ceiling that had been an eye sore for many years
- Install a new drop ceiling, blinds, lights, light covers and new electrical outlets
- Gave the library a new, needed coat of paint
- Refurbished the wood cabinets and table
- Cleaned the library thoroughly for the first time in many years
- Installed a new computer system with internet access and a wireless router
- Procured donated laptops and desktops for the use of the craft.
Since my tenure as Grand Librarian, we have accomplished the following:
- Created a web presence for the Library that includes an order form and connected it to the Grand Lodge website (thank you Bro. Tommy Wheeler (#79) )
- Began the creation of an archival system for the many historical treasures that lay hidden in our GL library including photos, books, journals and magazines
- Created a Library Learning series to discuss topics of Masonic Education to help the craft including visiting lectures and a working relationship with the Committee on Masonic Education (COME)
- Opened a new bank account for MWPHGL of NY – Masonic Enterprises (aka Grand Lodge Library)
- Procured an employee identification number for MWPHGL of NY – Masonic Enterprises
- Began taking credit cards for purchases in the Library
- Expanded the number of items offered for purchase in the library, i.e. books, paraphernalia, and specialty items
- Fostered relationships with new Masonic vendors to help provide new products.
Brothers, we have accomplished some truly great fetes together and with your continued support MWPHGL of NY – Masonic Enterprises will successfully achieve its vision. Although we have made some great strides, we still have work to do. Some next steps and recommendations include:
- Installing additional electrical outlets
- Installing an air conditioner for the summer months
- Installing a new rug
- Replacing broken windows
- Creating a real system for categorizing the books
- Donating certain items to the Schomburg’s Masonic collection
- Having a book appraiser assign monetary value on the library’s rare books.
Again, thank you for your many encouraging words and to the Craft for your continuous support of MWPHGL of NY – Masonic Enterprises.
Respectfully submitted,
Kevin P. Wardally
W:.B:. Kevin P. Wardally (#14)
Manager of MWPHGL of NY – Masonic Enterprises
(aka Grand Lodge Librarian)
