The local Friends of the Library is seeking new and renewal memberships to continue its support for the Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library in 2021.
Although the pandemic has prevented the organization’s members from meeting for nearly a year, their work has continued, Friends president Margaret Macdonald told Hoptown Chronicle.
In a recent letter to solicit memberships, the group noted several library projects that received financial support from the Friends of the Library in 2020. These included:
- A 58-inch smart TV to show programs that complement children’s stories, enhance Epic Hour for teen and tween video games, and help community groups with presentations.
- A new lectern with sound system in the community room.
- A computer Hotspot program so library patrons can check them out for internet access at home.
- A donation for the library staff’s Christmas party.
Membership dues and donations help pay for projects like these.
Suggested dues range from $10 for students and military to $25 for individuals. Business memberships are also available. A list of all membership levels is available in a recent letter from the board of directors to community members.
Dues and donations may be sent to Friends of the Library, 1101 Bethel St., Hopkinsville, KY 42240. Additional information is available by emailing the organization.
Despite numerous coronavirus restrictions in 2020, Macdonald said the organization has been encouraged by the work staff members and Director DeeAnna Sova have done to keep the library’s mission going.
“It is remarkable what they have been able to accomplish,” she said.
The local Friends of the Library was a re-established about five years ago. The officers, in addition to Macdonald, are: Anita Simmons, vice president, Jaime Petersen, treasurer, and Diane Wood, secretary.
Jennifer P. Brown is co-founder, publisher and editor of Hoptown Chronicle. You can reach her at editor@hoptownchronicle.org. Brown was a reporter and editor at the Kentucky New Era, where she worked for 30 years. She is a co-chair of the national advisory board to the Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues, governing board past president for the Kentucky Historical Society, and co-founder of the Kentucky Open Government Coalition. She serves on the Hopkinsville History Foundation's board.
