In October 2007, several people attended an exhibit of West Islip memorabilia at the library.  Old maps, books, newspapers, scrapbooks and other items were there on loan from the  George Weeks Memorial Library and the West Islip Museum.  These two collections are housed at the Community Center on Higbie Lane.

Attendees were invited to come to come back to the library and share their stories and memories of growing up in West Islip.  We quickly realized that we all shared an interest in preserving West Islip history - and from that group - the West Islip Historical Society was formed.

The founding members are Nell Brosnan, Konny Lang, Terry Alleg,  Katie Hafele, John Oleksiuk, John Paserb, Gail Gyarmathy and Carolyn Agenjo.  Tom Spain, Donna Gerek, Joy Grimes and Joy Mangiaracina joined us soon after.

We are planning projects such as publishing a book of photographs and reminiscences, preparing the West Islip Museum for public visits, creating programs that will draw attention to our group's efforts, and researching our community's heritage.  Soon we will develop a charter, by-laws and a mission statement; and we are exploring the process of incorporation.   

Currently serving as officers are:   President, Carolyn Agenjo, Vice-President, Gail Gyarmathy; Secretary, Joy Mangiaracina; Treasurer, Joy Grimes.  At the October 23 meeting, we will ask for further nominations for officers, and at the December 10 meeting, we will elect officers to serve for 2009.  We welcome all who would like to join us.

Call the library at 661-7082 or email us at   wihistory@optonline.net