Cleveland School Library Dedicated to Librarian Paula C. Clifford-This Day in Norwood History-June 12, 2002

On June 12, 2002, the Cleveland School Library was formally dedicated to the memory of Paula C. Clifford, the school’s beloved librarian whose influence had shaped generations of young readers. A bronze plaque was installed at the library entrance, marking its new name — the Paula C. Clifford Library — and ensuring that her legacy would remain a permanent part of the school’s identity.

The dedication reflected not only the affection felt for Clifford, but also the central role the library played within the school community. The Cleveland School had long embraced a philosophy that placed the library at the heart of learning — a resource designed to serve students, teachers, and the broader school community with equal care. Under Clifford’s stewardship, the library had become a vibrant hub of curiosity, literacy, and support.

The mission of the newly named Paula C. Clifford Library continued that vision. Its foremost objective was to provide the highest‑quality resources possible, maintaining a strong core collection that supported both curricular needs and recreational reading. The dedication ceremony underscored the belief that a school library is more than a room filled with books — it is a living, evolving service center that nurtures imagination, research skills, and a lifelong love of reading.

By naming the library in her honor, the Cleveland School ensured that Paula C. Clifford’s commitment to literacy, kindness, and student growth would continue to guide the school for years to come. Her name now greets every child who walks through the library doors — a fitting tribute to a librarian who believed deeply in the power of stories and the importance of access to knowledge.

source: Norwood Annual Report