Ellen Loughran (née O'Reilly) passed away unexpectedly at her home on January 2, 2023, at the age of 79. Her family and friends are deeply saddened by her passing but are grateful for her life, tenacity, and sense of humor.

Ellen was born on January 23, 1943 to Frances and James O'Reilly, while her father was serving overseas in WWII. She attended St. Dominic's High School in Oyster Bay, NY. Ellen earned a bachelor's degree from Marymount Manhattan College in 1964 and a graduate degree in Library Sciences from Pratt Institute in 1969.

She was proud to be a librarian at the Brooklyn Public Library's Central Library on Grand Army Plaza, where she began her career in 1966. Her passion was children's literature and services, and she ultimately held several influential leadership roles in this area until her retirement in 1997. A teacher and mentor to many librarians throughout the years, Ellen shared her extensive knowledge and sharp wit with an open heart.

Throughout her career, Ellen was highly active in the American Library Association (ALA), where she worked on various councils and initiatives, most notably serving on numerous prestigious awards committees.

After "retirement", Ellen was a Visiting Assistant Professor at Pratt Institute's School of Information (the oldest accredited library school in the United States) from 2004 to 2011. She was also an academic reference librarian at NY City Tech and Hunter College. She truly loved working with young people, and teaching aspiring literary and library professionals.

In November of 2022, Ellen celebrated her 50th anniversary of sobriety, a strong and encouraging inspiration to participants in any 12-step program.

Ellen was predeceased by Joseph, her loving husband of over 35 years in 2008. Her memory lives on with seven nieces and nephews, numerous great-nieces and nephews, many cousins, and dear friends.

For Memorial Gifts or Donations, please consider Red Door Community , formerly Gilda's Club NYC and the Brooklyn Public Library (specify the Youth Wing special fund).

Each time you read a passage or a book, especially if reading with or to a child, please think of Ellen smiling down on you…

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