Librarian's Death Spurs Springfield Library Staff to Advocate for Safety

Community Action Leads to Safer Streets After Tragic Accident

In Springfield, Massachusetts, a tragic incident served as a catalyst for change. The death of Gayle Ball, a beloved librarian, sparked a movement to improve pedestrian safety on State Street, where she lost her life after being struck by a vehicle outside the library where she worked.

The absence of a crosswalk on this busy street had previously resulted in another fatality in 2014, involving a young girl. Determined to prevent further tragedies, Ball's colleagues, affiliated with AFSCME Local 1596A (Council 93), launched a campaign to advocate for the installation of a crosswalk in the 200 block of State Street.

The library workers took action by publicly highlighting the safety issue, consistently voicing their concerns, and maintaining pressure on local authorities. Their persistence was rewarded with the completion of a new crosswalk, which has had a noticeable impact on the area. "It does seem like the new crosswalk has slowed traffic down a lot, which is good for everybody, for other drivers, for pedestrians, for library patrons," remarked Chelsea Bell, the branch supervisor.

Gayle Ball was remembered not only for her dedication to her work but also for her generous nature and willingness to help others. "Not only was she an incredible, hard worker who was amazingly generous, she would go above and beyond to help people," recalled Elizabeth McKinstry, a training and programming librarian. "She was trying to do the right thing for the library and for the people that depended on her. And we owe her to make sure nobody forgets that."

Through their efforts, the library staff have not only honored their colleague's memory but have also made a significant contribution to community safety, ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again.