The Books & Blooms Flower Show, held September 11-13 at Paxton’s Richards Memorial Library, was a success on multiple levels according to Robin Tasca, the driving force behind the event and president of the Paxton MA Garden Club (PMAGC).

Proceeds from the unique fundraiser equally benefited both the town library and the garden club.

 Tasca first thought of the fundraiser years ago but put the idea aside as her energies were directed to helping the garden club grow.

Then the Paxton budget overrides failed in 2024. “I was really worried about the library, so I decided to dust off my flower show idea and pitch the concept to the Friends of Richards Memorial Library (FRML). I wanted to showcase what an asset the library is to the town – and make money for them and PMAGC.  Thankfully the Friends took the idea to the library trustees – and well, the rest is history.

“The event would not have been possible without the generous support of our donors,” continued Tasca. She included the Big Y Holden, Country Bank, Charcuterie Woo, Cork + Compass Photography, Howes Farm and Garden, Joan Laracy, Market Basket, Miles Funeral Home, On The Rise Baking, Ten West Market, and Wegmans Northboro.

The organizing committee, composed of members of both PMAGC and FRML, met monthly for six months and then more frequently as the event approached. “The committee members went above and beyond,” said Tasca. “They worked seamlessly together.” She thanked Carol Coleman, Anita Fenton, Sandy Hautanen, Kathryn Mahoney, Patti McKone, Rhonni Pender-Cudlip, Kristin Steinmetz, and Pat Wheeler.

“Robin kept everyone organized and on task,” said one committee member. “Her skill with spreadsheets, her attention to detail, her energy and diligence are remarkable.”

“We want to thank the garden club members who came out of their comfort zone to create stunning pieces of botanical artworks,” said Tasca. The five winners of the Books & Blooms were: Children’s Literature: Shannon Richards & Rosemary Regan; Gardening: Helen Bures Urbanovitch; Murder Mystery: David Mangus; Poetry: Ann McDougle; Travel: Beth Vietze. The People’s Choice Award winner was Anne Weale and Jane McTigue for their Day in the Hundred Acre Wood.

“We would also like to thank the community for its support and everyone who attended our two receptions as well as the public view day,” said Tasca. “Joan Laracy, who demonstrated flower arranging at both receptions, was very generous with her time.”

While organizers would like to plan another Books & Blooms for 2026, Richards Memorial Library will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. Discussions with the anniversary organizers will have to be held to see if – and how - another flower show could be incorporated into those festivities.