Friends of the Library

Many of you probably received in your mail box last week an invitation to join the Friends of the James Kennedy Public Library.  Although I am no doubt biased because of all the wonderful things that the Friends do for the library, I wanted to take a few minutes this week to encourage you to join this great organization.  I also want to thank all of the members and the Executive Board of the organization for all of their hard work in supporting the library over the years. 

In case you don’t know what the Friends group is or does, a little background might be in order.  The Friends group was organized in 1987 and has been active ever since.  Their stated purpose is … “to assist the library in developing programs to meet current community needs; to assist in promoting knowledge of and participation in library programs; to aid in providing funds to meet special library needs; and to provide a channel for individuals and organizations to express ideas and make suggestions for library use and service.”  In other words, they are an auxiliary or support group for the library.  They help by providing funds, time, talent, and information. 

Over the years, the Friends have sponsored many programs and events at the library.  They purchased the first television and VCR for library programs.  Traditionally, they provide funds for the children’s program held during Children’s Book Week and for at least one of the programs held during the summer.  They provide prizes for the summer reading programs, refreshments for events, and talented volunteers when needed.  When the new library facility was built, they donated $10,000.00 toward construction.  More recently, they cosponsored the visit from Dora the Explorer.  They have set aside funds to support the movies the library is showing (including the purchase of a new popcorn popper) and the adult computer classes.

The Friends are a tax exempt nonprofit organization so thay are also able to apply for grants to support the library.  This gives the library one more way to add services and programs.  The Friends are supported by you, when you join and pay membership dues, and by several fundraisers each year.  Their biggest fundraiser is the annual “Taste of the Midwest” event held in late September.  If you haven’t been to a Taste, you should set aside the last Wednesday in September and plan to come.  This fun food festival is a great time to discover the different foods area vendors have to offer, visit with friends and family, and support your local Friends group and library. 

The Friends also hold two book sales each year.  In July, they have their annual used book sale where they sell any books donated to the library which the library cannot use, as well as books withdrawn from the library due to lack of use, being out of date, etc.  In November they hold a new book fair – just in time for your holiday shopping. 

Are you a Friend?  I am and I encourage you to think about being one too.  Joining the Friends is an inexpensive way to support the library and ensure our ability to continue providing quality service, programs and materials to the community.