Submitted by Dawn Frood
SOUTH BAY, FL — Next month, the South Bay community will come together to celebrate the retirement of a woman whose name has become synonymous with service, leadership, and literacy. Deborah Gadson, Member Services Manager of the Clarence E. Anthony Branch of the Palm Beach County Library System, will soon retire after 25 transformative years of dedicated public service.
Deborah began her career with the library system in 1999 as a Library Associate III, later rising through the ranks to become the branch’s Member Services Manager, Library Associate V in 2015. Over the years, she helped the South Bay branch grow into a welcoming and vital resource for children, families, and seniors alike. Her work went far beyond books and shelving. Gadson played a key role in the branch’s major renovation in 2008 and helped lead the RFID tagging of the collection the following year.
But her legacy is most felt in her relationships with coworkers, members, and community partners. “I have had the pleasure of working with Ms. Deborah for over 19 years,” shared Erica Willis, a longtime colleague. “She has taught me so much and has played an important role in my growth here at the Palm Beach County Library System. Deborah is a dedicated worker, and I believe the best is yet to come. Enjoy your retirement!” Others echoed those sentiments. Heidi Neville reflected, “I always enjoyed working with Deborah because she is the definition of integrity. Her reliability made working with her easy. It made me smile to hear her laugh. Happy retirement!” Willena Russell, another long-standing coworker, added: “Wishing you a retirement filled with joy, relaxation, and new experiences. You’ve earned it, and we’re grateful for everything you’ve contributed.”
Glades Area Manager for PBCLS, Graham Brunk noted that, “Deborah’s commitment also extended to the wider South Bay community. She collaborated closely with the City of South Bay and local leaders to launch successful book clubs and adult literacy programs, reinforcing the library’s role as an anchor in the neighborhood.”
Her efforts were honored in May 2022, when the branch celebrated its 30th anniversary. The event, attended by civic leaders and community members, including the branch’s namesake Clarence E. Anthony, was a testament to her tireless work and was formally recognized by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners.
As the community prepares for her farewell celebration, there is a shared understanding that while Deborah may be retiring, her impact will remain deeply woven into the fabric of South Bay. The library she helped nurture stands as a living legacy of her work.
From a childhood without local access to books, to a career ensuring others never faced that same barrier, Deborah Gadson’s story is one of vision, purpose, and heart.
