Ela Library support group disbanding

With no one stepping up to replace retiring officers of its board, the Friends of the Ela Library group is disbanding this year, officials said.

The group plans to continue meeting until August, and will organize its annual Book Review Luncheon scheduled for April 23 at the Twin Orchard Country Club in Long Grove, president Terri Meyer said.

"It's bittersweet," said Meyer, who has been president for 10 years. "For all of us who have been on the Friends board, that has been our passion."

Friends of the Ela Library has held three book sales annually, and raised $15,000 to $20,000 a year for the library. Since 1981, the group has donated more than $220,000, and will forward all its remaining assets to the library.

"We have great community support attending our book sales and the luncheon." Meyer said.

Disbanding seemed like the only viable option for the group, which is overseen by a seven-member board of directors. Meyer, Secretary Barb Johnson and Treasurer and Chairwoman of Used Book Sales Libby Stachowiak found no volunteers to replace them as officers as they looked to retire.

Meyer said officers volunteered nearly 20 hours a week.

"We wouldn't have done it this long if we didn't love the program," she said.

The Friends of the Ela Library took responsibility of the books donated to the library. Ela Area Public Library Director Mary Beth Campe said library officials are still exploring what options they have regarding public donations of books.

Campe also noted the regular library budget will not be affected because the group's donations usually sponsored extra programs.

"We're really sorry to see them go, but we understand," Campe said. "It was a lot of work for a few people."