About 40 people attended the Eisenhower Library for a front lawn sign dedication ceremony on Sept. 24. The sign was donated by the John and Grace Soldoveri Foundation of Totowa in memory of John Soldoveri’s sister Ida Marotta, a late library employee.
Marotta had served as library board of trustees secretary from 1974-1997. She was known for her attention to detail, administration input and fine character. Marotta was also Passaic County freeholder director from 1957 to 1959, and county financial director from 1973 to 1978.
The formalities began with some introductory remarks from Anne Krautheim, assistant library director. Janet Saunders - library board of trustees president - said Marotta played an instrumental role as secretary.
"Whenever we had a problem, or we had a discussion, we turned to Ida. ‘Ida what are your thoughts?’ Most often, we used her thoughts."
Mayor John Coiro said the tributary sign is a fitting homage to Marotta. Even in today’s Internet age, a lawn fixture still remains one of the best ways to publicize the institution’s happenings.
Coiro also commended the Soldoveri Foundation for its generosity.
"We all have to pay our taxes, but we all don’t have to make contributions."
John Soldoveri said his late sister had a smart mind.
"Ida was a rather unique gal. She was just one of the brightest people that I ever encountered frankly. Whenever I had a problem, I would go to Ida."
Though Soldoveri said his sister was modest.
"She did not want a lot of formality. She would say, ‘Just put a sign up, and that’s fuss enough,’ " he said.
After his remarks, Soldoveri joined the honoree’s son, James Marotta, in turning on the switch, illuminating the electric board. Also unveiled was a bronze tablet commemorating the late secretary.
Joan Krautheim - library director - recounted how Marotta gave her pointers in running the library. Krautheim said she found her helpful upon becoming director in 1984.
"She was a director of Passaic County freeholders, and when she came here. She took me under my wing, and gave me a brief lesson on management."
The director said library board members regularly consulted her as well.
"She wanted only the best," she said, concerning the Eisenhower Library.
In a later interview, Krautheim added Marotta was conscientious.
"She was a wonderful secretary. She was very duteous, and very thorough. She would offer her advice when asked." She also described Marotta as "very humble, modest, and well-liked."
Councilman John Waryas - an Eisenhower library trustee - said Marotta was highly esteemed for her sterling service.
"She was very, very, very intelligent. She was a very thoughtful woman. Her word was golden."
