LYNN –Former Mayor Patrick McManus built his career on a foundation of education and made sure the city he loved had the same opportunity to grow through knowledge.
McManus’s passion for learning started at Lynn English High School, where he served as class president and captain of the football team before graduating in 1972.
He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree at Bowdoin College, a master’s in business administration from Suffolk University, and a law degree from Boston College.
His career path reflected this dedication: he practiced law, taught at the college level, and in 1985, launched his public service career with election to the City Council.
When McManus became Mayor in 1992, that same lifelong love of learning guided his leadership. He championed the Lynn Public Library, directing more than $10 million in city funds toward its programs and operations. But his most memorable contributions were the ones that put books directly into children’s hands.
In his first year in office, McManus launched an incentive program that encouraged children to read at least 20 books during the summer months. To celebrate their success, he invited participants to City Hall for an ice cream party, where they were recognized with citations and gifts.
“The idea of the incentive program is to promote the importance of reading and reward each individual for hard work and dedication to achieving the goal of reading a total of 20 books,” McManus told The Item in 1995.
Chief Librarian Theresa Hurley said such initiatives made a lasting impact. “Studies have shown that children may experience the ‘Summer Slide,’ where children lose knowledge and skills they had during the academic year, particularly for those who have less access to educational opportunities during the summer,” she explained. “It is important to keep kids active, not just physically, but mentally active during the summer months which includes reading, participation in entertaining/educational programs, and peer interaction.”
Now, decades later, McManus’ vision for an educated, thriving city will be permanently remembered at the library he championed. A bronze plaque bearing his name will be affixed to the front entrance of the Lynn Public Library, honoring his commitment to the students and families of Lynn.
The celebration will begin at 5 p.m., followed by a reception inside the library at 5 North Common St.—a fitting tribute to a mayor who believed that the key to a strong city begins with learning.
