Watch CBS News

Local Barber Leaves $1.4M To Athol Public Library

ATHOL (CBS) -- Nobody knew Anthony Ralys had money.

Ralys had been a barber in Athol for many years, and had lived in the town for all his life. When he died last fall, the community was happily surprised to find that he had left $1.4 million from his estate to the Athol Public Library in his will.

"It's wonderful for the library and for the town, really," said Library Director Jean Shaughnessy.

Shaughnessy believes Ralys donated the money in honor of his late wife, who used to visit the library often to read. She said the couple lived in a modest home, but made wise investments over the years. They had no children, and so their money was left to the library.

"The money is to be used for the library building renovations, additions, or improvements," said Library Director Jean Shaughnessy. "So, it's rather restricted, but it's great for the town, they won't need to put any money into new solar panels or a new roof."

Shaughnessy said the building is only two years old, so they won't need to tap into the money any time soon.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.