It was a tough decision to make, but members of the library commission decided to deny the request of local resident Betty Peck to place an old-fashioned wooden bench with a plaque at the Saratoga Library in commemoration of her husband's 80th birthday, which was celebrated in August. Her husband, Willys, is recognized as the city's unofficial historian. He's published a book about the evolution of all the libraries in Saratoga and currently sits on the heritage preservation commission.

City council members approved Betty's proposal during a meeting held in early October. In addition to the bench and plaque, she also expressed interest in adding landscape features, such as grass, additional trees, a stone wall along the edge of the orchard and vegetation on both sides of the existing concrete walkway.

Betty agreed to cover most of the expenses and handed the city a check for $2,000. According to Assistant City Manager Lori Tinfow, the city will pitch in $1,700 to cover the cost of adding grass to the proposed site, which overlooks the Heritage Orchard.

"It was actually Willys's friends who decided to put the bench at the library," Betty said. "I thought it was a fitting idea because Willys absolutely loves libraries. He's even kept his first library card, which he got when he was 7 years old, and he loves words. He's the epitome of a library."

However, the Pecks may have to consider other locations to place the commemorative bench due to the library's policy against accepting any permanent donation, which includes any type of artwork or furniture for both the interior and exterior of the building.

"We all love Willys. He's a great person," said Ruth Gipstein, the commission's vice chairwoman. "But we have to be careful. Accepting this request could set a precedent for similar requests in the future."

According to Anne Cross, library commission chairwoman, accepting donations has been an ongoing issue for the commission.

"There have been many requests in the past," Cross said. "There are so many wonderful people in the community and we're thrilled that people want to contribute to the library, but it's impossible for us to honor everybody in such a manner. If we grant one person special privileges, we would have to do the same for others. We don't want to single anybody out."

Cross added that there are several other ways residents can honor loved ones at the library. For instance, individuals can purchase a bronze plaque, which would be placed at the library's entrance, or wooden book spines, which can be seen on the walls of the adult's and children's rooms.

Betty said she is unsure where to go from here, but is still hopeful and in good spirits.

"I guess we'll just have to let the winds blow and see where it takes us," she said. "Or maybe we'll settle for renaming the library after Willys."

The issue will go back to the city council for further direction.