by Pablita L. Edwards, transcribed from Jemez Jonker, May 1, 1992
Who are they? First of all, there is a parent group called Friends of Libraries USA (FOLUSA). ‘Thirty-three states have chapters, each of which is a member of this parent group. Individual state chapters are made up of people who wish to support public libraries in member states. There is a chapter In Los Alamos. For example, which promotes the Mesa Public Library In Los Alamos and its branch library in White Rock.
Hundreds of people in the Jemez Springs area have enjoyed our Community Library for many years. How many remember when it occupied a corner of a vestibule Presbyterian Church? At that time, the librarian was Bill Guse. Bill did much in expanding the tiny library and getting grants. Each librarian since, appointed by the Jemez Sprinqs Village Hall, has contributed valuable time and effort into the growth at our library. Soon there is hope that the library will have its own computer and that photocopying services might be available at the expanding Village Hall.
Donna Lea Greer was interested in forming a local FOL chapter to support our Community Library and Amy Pearson, the current librarian, has obtained literature on the subject.
Members of local FOL groups help raise funds, sponsor cultural events and programs, act as library advocates to legislators for necessary funding, and help inform the public about activities and needs of each library. Often, they act as volunteers to head library programs or help the library staff in any capacity necessary.
Individual libraries vary in what needs to be done. Ours has only one paid librarian and is open only a few days a week. Additional funds obtained through a local FOL chapter could change that. We already have volunteers, but there is no organization.
To form a FOL chapter, interested people should meet on a regular basis toward that end. By-laws must be written; the proposed group must be incorporated with the State as a non-profit, tax-exempt body; officers must be elected; a steering committee selected; and the exact present status of the library must be determined along with future goals for expansion and funding. For most chapters, due are low – perhaps $5 per year, with reduced fees for students and senior citizens. Most local chapters publish a monthly or bi-monthly newsletter.
Many of us have enjoyed our Community Library, free of charge. We have watched it grow and expand services. Let’s show our appreciation by getting together and forming our own FOL chapter. We’ll all benefit – the library itself and all who patronized it. Please contact Amy Pearson if you are interested. She will record your name and we can set a meeting date soon to begin this vital project. (Today a reader, tomorrow a leader. W. Fussleman)