Michael Dichiara remembers 20 years ago when he learned he had been hired at the Mid-Manhattan Branch of the New York Public Library. "I was so happy," he recalled. "It was such a long time ago."

Michael's colleagues commemorated his 20 years of service recently by throwing him a surprise anniversary party.

Michael, who works as a part-time book-sorter, has a developmental disability and has received job training through YAI's Manhattan Employment Services.

The library honored him with a two-hour long pizza party with about 20 co-workers attending. And of course, there was a huge cake.

"I was very surprised! It's unbelievable! I can't believe how long I've worked here; it has been a long time!" Michael exclaimed.

"He's terrific and he is always on time. He enjoys what he is doing," said his colleague Nicholas Ford from the library's Circulation Dept.

"It was such a great celebration of Michael's accomplishments," added Liam O'Connell, Employment Training Specialist. "Moments like this make me realize how appreciated our guys really are at work."

Many of Michael's co-workers pointed out that he rarely calls in sick or takes a vacation.

"When Michael first started he struggled with social interactions. Now he is more open and that is a real milestone," said Satera Febus, Supervisor Manhattan Employment Services.

As a thank you for his decades of service, Michael received a Best Buy gift card.