Parade Grand Marshal: Michael Robinson

The Robinson family has lived in Riverton and Palmyra since the 1880’s when Michael’s grandfather emigrated from Germany to work as a gardener at Dreer’s Nursery. He was born here in the area and has stuck around ever since. His family has close ties with both towns. His grandmother, father, sisters, and now his daughters all graduated from Riverton School and Palmyra High School. During WWII, his father, uncle, and aunt lived in my grandfather’s house at 900 Morgan Avenue. They served in the war and are all represented on Palmyra’s War Memorial.

Michael is best known for his role as manager of the Riverton Free Library (“Serving Palmyra and Riverton since 1899”) for over 30 years. His Story Hour is known and loved by so many. 30 years of Story Hours – of “Open Shut Them” and “Monkeys Jumping on the Bed”. Many of those children are grown up now, with children of their own.

For 30 years, Michael has been the heart of our library — sharing knowledge, fostering curiosity, and welcoming every visitor with kindness. Our community is better, wiser, and closer because of his dedication and care. Not to mention his great sense of humor! His commitment to literacy, learning, and connection has touched generations. Michael, you’ve made our library a true home for our community.Michael says it was a privilege to have worked in a place that has served our towns as a center of community and reading for over 100 years. If we read, and read to our children and grandchildren, we will be doing our small part to make a better world.

Super fun fact…Michael wanted us all to know that he never missed a Halloween parade!

Thank you, Michael, for years of service and dedication.