Hopkinton Library’s Beloved Stuffed Animal Workshop Renamed ‘Gar’s Bears’

The Hopkinton Public Library is renaming one of its most beloved events in memory of their friend.

Library Director Kim Albright says on Thursdays for six weeks during the summer, the library hosts Tremendous Thursdays, sponsored by the Lions Club. She says it might consist of a program, a craft – or their stuffed animal workshop.

The Hopkinton library has hosted the stuffed animal workshop for the past five (going on six) years, gifting around three hundred stuffed animals to children who are excited to give them a new home. And at every one of those events, you could find Library Board President Gary Besler. 

Gary unexpectedly passed away last October. In the midst of grieving the loss of their friend, Albright and the board found out Gary’s wish was to leave money to the library.

Gary’s oldest daughter, Sarah Meyer, says on behalf of their family, they are touched that the Hopkinton Public Library has decided to name the stuffed animal workshop “Gar’s Bears” in his honor. 

She says one thing that was always important to him was making the community a better place and leaving a legacy behind.

Gary’s children and their families have also chosen to make an annual donation, allowing the library to expand the workshop for years to come.

The library will also honor Gary with his own special stuffed animal that his family will create in his memory at this year’s workshop – complete with an Air Force uniform to honor his time in the service. Gary’s newly-stuffed bear will be the workshop’s new mascot – complete with its very own star that’s been wished upon. Albright says the star ceremony was Gary’s favorite part of this event.

This stuffed animal workshop is beloved by many – and that’s evident in the sign-up numbers. Registration for “Gar’s Bears” stuffed animal workshop opened yesterday. It always fills up fast – and that was the case again this year. Last year, they were able to give 60 stuffed animals – but with the funds provided in Gary’s memory, they’ll be able to expand that to 95 this year.

audio courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH; photos courtesy of Sarah Meyer; logo courtesy of Hopkinton Public Library