The Cheyne meeting room at the library has been named in honor of Clara C. Cheyne, Byron Township librarian from 1936 until her retirement in 1960. She was a self-taught, energetic member of this community.

Her support of the library began with her working through the PTA to get a ‘full-fledged’ library in this area. She began with 300 books in the Town Hall. She picked up special orders and regular exchanges from the Kent County Library headquarters, often by city bus. In 1957 the library was opened to the local school classes, and as a result had to be expanded into the hall and kitchen. Many children came on Saturday mornings and enjoyed story hour, also introduced by Mrs. Cheyne.

Her community activities included the organization of a girl’s sewing class (aided by Mrs. Hardy), a Boys’ Club, and a hot lunch program in the local school. She was also an active member of the Methodist Church.

(Taken from the dedication program, 1978)

If you find yourself at the Museum (old Town Hall), look at the walls in the northeast corner of the office. You can still see the lines where the paint hit the shelves of that first library!

She was 76 when she died. Her husband, Burr, was 64. Note the ‘triple link; on his stone. They are buried at Boynton Cemetery