Algonquin library celebrates National Friends of Libraries Week

The week of Oct. 18-24 is an important week for libraries across the country. It's National Friends of Libraries Week, a time to honor the volunteers who contribute so much of their time to enhance library services, materials, and facilities.

Since the Friends of the Algonquin Area Public Library began in 1991, they have raised more than $250,000 to cover many items not supported by the library's budget, including Summer Reading T-shirts, public information boards, employee scholarships, and 2,500-plus paperback children's books to give away at community parades. In fact, the Friends were integral in bringing cutting-edge technology to the library's programming with the purchase of a MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3-D Printer in 2014.

Currently, the Friends' membership stands at approximately 20 Friends actively volunteering their time to assist with fundraising efforts, including the popular semiannual book sale held in the spring and fall. They are also active supporters of The Literacy Connection in Elgin, participating in its annual Trivia Bee and other events.

"The library has always played such an important role in my life," says Friends President Jim Golden. "I truly enjoy being able to give something back - and being an active member of this group is fun." Other officers of the organization are Alice Wainwright, vice president; Doris Benes, secretary; and Kent Sprague, book sale chairman.

A special poster commemorating the Friends will be highlighted at both library locations throughout the week for visitors to view. Special photos and trivia ("Did you know the Friends' purchased the Library's very first TV and VCR?") will be posted on social media as well.

Executive Director Stephen Bero notes that the Friends of the Library play an integral role in serving the community. "I think most patrons would be surprised that many of the services and programs they enjoy are made possible through the Friends," he says. "We are grateful for such a dedicated, hardworking group of volunteers - they truly have a heart for the library."

Membership is open to library district residents who are high school age and older. You can find out more about what they do, how they do it and how you can help at their meetings the first Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. at the Eastgate Branch Library. You can also learn more about the Friends by calling Outreach Librarian Virginia Donahue at (847) 458-3144 or visiting www.aapld.org/about-us.