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Pearl River Public Library Appoints Nancy Aravecz Shah Director, Meet-and-Greet Scheduled for June 10

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6 months ago

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PEARL RIVER, NY – The Pearl River Public Library (PRPL) invites local residents to meet its newly appointed director, Nancy Aravecz Shah, during a special Meet-and-Greet event on Tuesday, June 10. The community is welcome to stop by for light refreshments and conversation anytime during the two-hour window between 4p.m. and 6 p.m. The library is located at 75 East Central Avenue in Pearl River.

A distinguished librarian and library director, Ms. Shah has spent several years in the public library environment and higher education and joins PRPL from the Florham Park Public Library in Morris County, New Jersey where she served as Director. After a
comprehensive regional search to find a leader with the experience and vision necessary to propel the library forward, the Pearl River Public Library Board of Trustees unanimously approved her appointment on April 28.

In her most recent leadership position in Florham Park, Ms. Shah was instrumental in building partnerships with educational institutions, nonprofit organizations and local businesses to support and enhance library services. She also led the planning and
preparation for a major renovation project, ensuring both materials and staff were ready for the transformation.

Previously, Ms. Shah served for nearly six years as a Senior Librarian at the New York Public Library – Jefferson Branch in Manhattan.

Ms. Shah holds a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University, a Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts in English, cum laude, from Wagner College with a minor in History.

“The Pearl River Public Library is an absolutely amazing community resource,” said Shah. “I am so impressed by the many offerings it provides. Just seeing all that this library team is able to achieve from its temporary space has been inspiring.”

With a strong commitment to access, education and preservation, Ms. Shah brings valuable expertise that will greatly benefit the library and the community it serves.

Said Shah, “I feel honored to have been chosen to lead the Pearl River Public Library as it embarks on the next phase of its renewal project. I can’t wait to see this institution realize its fullest potential in its new space. I am looking forward to getting to know this community and the PRPL team. I’m ready to dig in and get to work.”

Ms. Shah succeeds Interim Director Edward Falcone.

With more than 10,000 active cardholders, the Pearl River Public Library provides equal access for all to vast educational, cultural, literary, historical and digital resources.

Photo by Pearl River Public Library.

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Community

Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Senator Bill Weber Hosts Winter Clothing Drive

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1 week ago

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November 2, 2025

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As temperatures begin to drop, local residents are encouraged to open their hearts — and their closets — to help neighbors in need.

Community members are invited to donate new or gently used hats, gloves, scarves, coats, and shoes as part of this year’s winter clothing drive. Organizers say every item collected will go directly to individuals and families who might otherwise face the cold without proper protection.

“Even something as simple as a warm pair of gloves can make a huge difference,” said one volunteer helping coordinate the drive. “This is about coming together as a community to make sure no one is left out in the cold.”

Donations are being accepted now through the winter season, and all sizes and styles are welcome. Whether it’s a child’s coat that no longer fits or an extra pair of boots tucked away in the closet, every contribution helps.

Residents can drop off donations at locations listed on the flyer.

Together, we can help keep our community warm — one coat, one scarf, and one act of kindness at a time.

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Community

Rockland County Mourns the Passing of Vincent “Vince” Altieri

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2 weeks ago

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October 28, 2025

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The Rockland County community is mourning the loss of Vincent (Vince) Altieri, a longtime public servant and dedicated leader who passed away recently.

Vince devoted 18 years of service to Rockland County, beginning his career in 2007 within the County Executive’s Office as the Intergovernmental Relations Director. He later went on to serve as the Executive Director of the Rockland County Drainage Agency, a position he held for approximately 14 years.

Before joining Rockland County, Vince worked with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), where he made lasting contributions to environmental stewardship and policy. In addition to his county and state roles, Vince also served his community as a Judge in the Village of Spring Valley, earning widespread respect for his integrity and commitment to justice.

“Vince Altieri’s years of service and dedication to the people of Rockland County leave behind a lasting legacy of professionalism, kindness, and civic pride,” county officials said.

Rockland County extends its deepest condolences to Vince’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His leadership, generosity, and passion for public service will be deeply missed throughout the community.

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