Welcome Toto, the Tornado Kitten to the Grafton Library

Grafton started the month of July by going to the dogs.

But there’s a new cat coming to town, and he doesn’t want to be mayor. He’d just like to have your heart.

Toto the Tornado Kitten will be whirling into the Grafton Public Library on July 29, bringing his human, Jonathan Hall, and a tale of survival in the wake of the 2011 Western Mass tornado.

Toto, weighing six ounces, was brought to the Brimfield Fire Station in poor shape and was cared for by Hall, a firefighter, and other personnel before being turned over to the Animal Rescue League for special care. His wife surprised him two months later with the now-healthy kitten, and later, Hall wrote a book about the kitten’s adventures.

Toto the Tornado Kitten has become one of the library’s favorite summer guests, visiting more than half a dozen times.

“In honor of our favorite feline friend, the Grafton Public Library will be collecting pet food and supplies for the Grafton Food Bank in July and August.,” the library announced.  “Bring your donations of new, unopened dog, cat or small animal food, litter or supplies to the Grafton Public Library. Items particularly needed are dry cat food and canned dog food. There will be a collection box in the lobby.”

Drop by to meet Toto at the library on Friday, July 29 at 10:30am.  This program is for all ages: kids, teens, and adults.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Grafton Cultural Council, a local agency, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.