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TREASURES OF OUR LIBRARY The Armistice Day Reception The reception held on Remembrance Day by the Friends of the Library is unique as one of our "treasures," as it is not a library programme, as such, nor an item of library equipment. It is an honoured and much anticipated occasion. In some respects, it is the second grandest event in the annual calendar of the Friends. Only the annual book sale surpasses it in terms of public impact, or in the number of volunteer Friends who are personally involved. For many people, this event, which takes place on November 11 each year, immediately following the service at the Cenotaph, is essentially a social occasion. Certainly for the children it is a happy time, with generous supplies of fruit juices and tasty cookies. For adults too, it is an occasion for chatting with friends, for cups of tea or coffee, and often for a welcome respite from the weather outside the Library's doors. Too often, the day has been wet, blustery and cold. The cheery warmth inside the Library offers shelter from discomfort - and only a few steps from the Cenotaph. But in a moment of reflection, it is clear to all of us that this is an occasion of remembrance. Indeed, many people call the day Remembrance Day or Memorial Day. Those of us old enough to have memories still of World War I or its early aftermath seem to prefer the name "Armistice Day," probably because November 11, 1918 was such a momentous and memorable date. The day serves now to remind us of the casualties of Canada's armed forces in all the wars in which our country has been embroiled. The differences in the names applied to the day are of little import. All of us know in our hearts that it is a time to cherish the memories of loved ones and of countless strangers lost in our country's wars. We remember anew that their sacrifices have made it possible for us to enjoy privileged lives today. "To the end, to the end they remain." This momentous occasion is part - an important part, we think - of the mortar which binds us as a community. We shall never forget that this Library is a memorial. Here is no cold structure of stone and cement. Here is a living, throbbing, supportive entity, ever growing, ever open to enrich and guide the lives of our citizens of all ages. We owe all this to our friends and forebears, remote or close, who chose to offer the supreme sacrifice to protect us and our way of life. We will remember them. 995.WVML West Vancouver Memorial Arch prior to unveiling. B&W July 5, 1925