MILLBROOK — A festive wine and hors d’oeuvres reception opened the traditional Friends of the Library Holiday Silent Auction on Friday, Dec. 5. Area residents took advantage of the opportunity to survey the more than 120 items being auctioned. Bidding will remain open until Saturday, Dec. 20, when the auction will end with another reception and an opportunity for last-minute bidding between 3:30 and 5 p.m.
Auction chairperson Sam Falk indicated that all auction proceeds support the library’s special projects that are not included in the normal operating budget.
“I’m always amazed at the generosity of the community,” Falk said, as she prepared the opening, looking after the final touches.
Although this year’s event marks 17 years of the Holiday Auction, the years have not been consecutive, Falk said, because of the hiatus brought by the pandemic.

The event coincided with the popular Parade of Lights in Millbrook, making the evening a true community event.
Falk said a core group of roughly 10 committee members took on a variety of responsibilities, including securing donated auction items, managing publicity, and overseeing event preparations.
Items being auctioned include a family membership and private tour of Innisfree Garden, personal training sessions and classes at Kyle’s Functional Fitness, 100 gallons of heating oil from Taylor, a weekend stay at Albanhaus Kennel for a pet, dinner for two at Stissing House,dinner for two at Panacea, a variety of gift baskets, antiques, fashion accessories and a range of gift certificates from leading local merchants.
Several local businesses provided support for the event, including Central Press, Bank of Millbrook, Marona’s, Matt’s Auto Body, Millbrook Winery, and Wes’ Autobody.
For more information about the Holiday Silent Auction and to see a complete list of auction items, go to millbrooklibrary.org/holiday-silent-auction/.










Classic styles, bold colors, and creative concerts make up the “Imaginary Concerts” line at Peggy Mercury.Provided
Shirts from Peggy Mercury’s first fashion line, “Imaginary Concerts,” hang on display.Provided







