Friends Kick Off Fundraising Campaign to Honor Elka Troutman

A much-loved member of the Ashland community, Elka Troutman, passed away last April after a long battle with colorectal cancer. Troutman was a tireless volunteer for many causes in Ashland, but her biggest passion was supporting children’s literacy. For many years she co-chaired the town’s summer reading program to encourage children to enjoy books even while school was on recess. She also volunteered in school libraries and classrooms to support the work of all teachers in the district. She was loved and respected by many for her selfless efforts.
To honor her spirit and commitment to the children of Ashland, the Friends of the Ashland Library plan to install a bronze sculpture, created by local artist Michael Alfano of Hopkinton, near the Children’s Room of the library. Troutman’s favorite children’s book was “The Story of Ferdinand” by Munro Leaf. This beloved classic is about a calf who doesn’t want to buck and fight like the other bulls but rather wants to sit peacefully and smell the flowers. Its central theme of “Be yourself and follow your path in life” is an important message for our children and community. Accordingly, the sculpture will be of a calf, a fitting way to honor Troutman who lived her life with passion, commitment and her own unique style.
The Friends of the Library are kicking off a fundraising campaign in April to cover the cost of the sculpture. Please consider making a donation of any amount. Donations can be made online via PayPal at www.friendsoftheapl.com or by mailing a check to: The FAL, 66 Front Street, Ashland, MA 01721 (please note that your check is for the sculpture). Thank you!