This story originally appeared in The Centre County Gazette.
Webster’s Bookstore Cafe owner Elaine Meder-Wilgus has been named the recipient of the 2024 Madison Award for Civility in the Community from Constitution Day Centre, Inc..
The award recognizes people or organizations that make continued contributions towards civility and community service, which Constitution Day Centre noted are “the hallmarks of American democracy.” Constitution Day Centre, a local nonprofit, works to promote education about the U.S. Constitution and encourages conversations between people of varying backgrounds and beliefs.
Meder-Wilgus will receive the honor at Constitution Day Centre’s “Making Our Voices Heard Roundtables” event at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at American Legion Post 245, 1950 Pine Hall Road, State College.
“Elaine has long demonstrated her deep commitment to our community in tangible and practical ways, creating supportive environments for individuals and their ideas,” David Hutchinson, president of Constitution Day Centre, said. “Personally, I have a deep appreciation of her efforts to give ‘voice’ to perspectives that would not have otherwise been heard. Our community is better for it.”
Meder-Wilgus has been a business owner since 1995.
“She is widely known for her steady advocacy of environmental sustainability, an inclusive community and a fair/safe workplace. Webster’s has long supported local community groups by offering free meeting space, and a platform for local musicians and visual artists and poets. Webster’s also co-hosts Stax of Trax vinyl music shop, and Tigers Eye vintage shop,” a statement from Constitution Day Centre shared.
The statement also applauded how Meder-Wilgus has used Webster’s to connect with local farmers, selling their produce since 2004, and committed to paying a living wage to the business’s employees.
“I have an amazing life full of connections and conversations with people from all over our region and the world,” Meder-Wilgus said. “They share stories with me, often centered around the power of community, literature and food, as they are all very powerful motivators in our lives. I’m lucky to have a life that celebrates people’s dignity and value simply by listening and doing what I love.”
