On June 1, 2026, community members, Virginia Beach Library Foundation Board members, library supporters, family, and friends gathered at Kempsville Library to celebrate the dedication of the Catharine Pepe Musical Installation, a vibrant outdoor musical experience designed to inspire creativity, connection, and joyful exploration for visitors of all ages.
The four-piece musical instrument installation serves as a lasting tribute to Catharine “Cathy” Pepe, whose passion for libraries, learning, and service left an enduring impact on the Virginia Beach community. Cathy dedicated many years to the Virginia Beach Department of Libraries, first as a devoted volunteer and later as a valued employee.
The dedication ceremony marked a meaningful milestone for both the Virginia Beach Library Foundation and Virginia Beach Public Library as attendees gathered to honor Cathy’s legacy and celebrate a space that reflects her spirit of creativity, learning, and community engagement. The installation offers visitors an opportunity to engage with music through play and discovery, creating memorable experiences that bring people together and enhance the library’s outdoor gathering spaces.
“The dedication of this musical installation represents more than the addition of a new feature at our library,” said Sarah Sindlinger, Kempsville Branch Manager. “It is a celebration of Cathy’s legacy and the lasting impact she had on our library community.”
The Virginia Beach Library Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who helped make this project possible, with special appreciation to our community partner, the Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Department, for their collaboration and support throughout the project.
Visitors are invited to experience the installation at Kempsville Library and enjoy this unique addition to one of Virginia Beach’s beloved community spaces.