The 19th annual National Friends of Libraries Week, is third week in October, promoting people support libraries across the country.
“We are the boosters for the library,” Friends of the Monroeville Public Library member Amy Baer said. “Just like boosters are needed for schools and athletic groups, we help promote the library’s resources and programs and raise funds to fill in the gaps for library needs.”
Friends of MPL invite the community to visit their table outside the library’s Elaine Biondi Gallery Space from Oct. 20- 26 to learn more and consider joining.
Library’s history
In 1960, the idea of opening a library was formed by Monroeville residents Maude Malick and Gladys Bernstein, with support from the Carnegie Library and Dr. Richard Oriani.
Mrs. Paul Cover and Elaine Biondi served as the first president and vice president, respectively. In June 1961, the Friends held an executive board meeting to finalize by-laws, a constitution and officers. Through months of dedication, the organization worked with the library board to secure community support, financing and land. There were 208 adult members before there was even a building.
“Since before the library opened its doors, there has been a Friends organization to support it and help it grow,” Diane Lindsey, the current president said. “We hope to have more individuals with a similar appreciation for the library join our nonprofit organization to help increase community awareness and use of the library’s facility, resources and services.”
Elaine Biondi Gallery Space
The gallery space opened in 1966 under the supervision of Biondi. The Friends continue to manage the space, connecting artists with the community.
“When I moved to Monroeville, the first thing I sought out was the library. I love reading and have always been involved with my local library,” gallery space manager Linda Reese said. “It is such a pleasure to be able to help bring the works of our talented local artists to the patrons of the library.”
Donations
In the past 25 years, the Friends have donated over $100,000, with considerable contributions such as $25,000 toward a library elevator, $7,000 for bookshelves and $2,000 for book carts.
Based on a staff suggestion, Friends led a “Light Up the Library” campaign. It started with a $5,000 donation for new LED lights and received additional backing from the Monroeville Lions and Rotary clubs, the Monroeville Foundation and many library patrons. Lights were purchased for the inside and outside of the library and installed by Monroeville municipal workers. The new lights are projected to save the library about $20,000 a year.
“For over 60 years, the Friends of MPL have volunteered countless hours for the betterment of the library either helping at the library directly or participating in fundraising activities,” Barbara Martinelli, vice president, said. “We are proud of contributions that have enriched the library through both positive experiences for patrons and long-lasting building enhancements.”
Member Tara Rotuna complimented the library’s staff members.
“They are responsive to our ideas for perks for our members, provide backing for fundraising events through promotion and selling tickets and manage the sale of the art at the front desk,” she said. “The Friends also appreciate the members of the Monroeville Public Library Board for their support.”
For more information on National Friends of Libraries Week, visit the American Library Association at www.ala.org.