Friends of the Alpha Park Library
Hundreds of libraries across the U.S. benefit from the presence of a Friends group. In my last position, in Texas, I depended on the Friends to underwrite the costs of the Summer Reading Club, pay for computers which the City could not afford to purchase…and the list could go on and on.
Friends provide support for libraries in many ways. Here are some of them:
-
In some cases, come together to establish a library where there was none before.
-
Serve to educate the greater community about the library, and its services.
-
Especially in municipal (city) libraries, advocate for library support from elected officials.
-
Assist library staff in volunteer positions, as needed.
-
Provide hospitality for library events.
-
Raise funds to pay for programs or materials that aren’t workable in the library’s regular budget.
-
“Grow” library foundations for ongoing fiscal security of the library.
Not all Friends groups take on all of the causes shown above, but they may choose to work on more than one goal.
A planning group began working in the fall of 2010 to establish a Friends group.
The next Friends meeting will be held on Monday, June 4, at 6:30 P.M. in the library.
What are the Friends currently working on?
The Friends have recently bought a new display rack to hold pamphlets and other “freebies” for the public. They’ve also purchased a plaque and beautifully framed photo of Dorothy and Ray Sitton, library donors, for whom the large conference room will be named.
The BIG news is that the Friends are planning a fund-raising raffle for Nov. 3. The prize? A vacation, lodging and air travel included, at the Chena Hot Springs Resort near Fairbanks, Alaska! Bernie Karl, owner of the resort and father of a Friends board member, and his wife are challenging the Friends to raise $10,000 via a raffle, with tickets @ $25 each. After a successful raffle, the Karls will provide the trip to the lucky winner.
Chena Hot Springs is “green,” with energy provided by the springs. Mr. Karl has been interviewed on the “Today Show.” Go online to www.youtube.com, and search using keywords: Chena Hot Springs, Today, Karl, or a similar selection. At raffle time, Mr. Karl will offer a presentation on “going green,” geothermal energy, sustainability, and more. Early plans call for the drawing to be held at the Kickapoo Creek Winery. Stay tuned!
The Friends of the Library supports APL in many ways. Memberships start at $5 for individuals, $20 for families, and go up from there. Information is available at the library, or call Leanne Sanders, Friends board president, at 697-8380.
Friends of Alpha Park Library brochure with application form
John Richmond
Library Director