Pictured are the 2021 Warsaw Community Public Library Friends of the Library Officers. From left, are Vice-President Sue Williamson, Treasurer Jamie Phillips, Member-at-Large Norma Stiegel, President Ann Werk, and Secretary Bree Robinson. Not pictured is Member-at-Large Laurie Williamson. Photo provided by WCPL staff.

By Ann Werk
WCPL Friends of the Library President

Ah, September. It’s a month that holds a lot of promise as we head into a new school year, settle back into old routines or make new ones, and wind up our summer projects. The Friends of the Library at Warsaw Community Public Library have decided to begin this fall with a membership drive.

The library is truly a community treasure. Moving here just a few years ago, the library was one of the first places my husband and I checked out. Avid readers, we knew right away that this was a special place. Before I knew it, I was involved in the Friends of the Library group and was able to see how much they do to support the library and its staff. Not everything needed can fit in the budget, and the Friends, through their bookstore revenue and support of special events, are able to help meet some of those needs.

During the week of Sept. 20, members of the Friends of the Library group will be in the WCPL downstairs entry hall, inviting you to become a part of this dynamic group. Membership for the remainder of 2021 is only $5. A yearly membership is $15 and lifetime memberships are also available. Members meet at 1 p.m. the first Monday of the month to discuss upcoming events. It’s also a time to get to know one another better, and so our theme for the membership drive is “Make a Friend, Be a Friend.”

If you sign up during this drive you will receive an invitation to a special Friends event on Oct. 19. We’ll be hosting a “Chocolate with Friends” event from 3-6 p.m. You’ll be able to sample some special chocolate items and enter to win some lovely door prizes. By joining the group, you and a guest are invited to help choose the winners of this one-of-a-kind taste-testing competition.

During this membership drive, we will also be seeking out corporate sponsors. For $75 per year, your business can participate in the support of the library. If you own or operate a business and would be interested in joining us, contact the library administrative offices for more information.

The Friends of the Library group wants everyone to know what a wonderful blessing the library is to the Warsaw community. It is a hub for community learning and entertainment. It is always acquiring new resources and materials. The library has a great hardworking staff who truly care about helping their patrons. Please consider joining us in supporting this wonderful part of the Warsaw community. Come join us and be a “Friend of the Library.”