We all need friends. The world is simply better when shared with people who have a common interest or goal, right? We appreciate ALL of you, our library friends. But this week, we are giving a special thanks and shout out to the extra-special group of card-carrying Friends of RML. Who are they? Keep reading to find out more.

In library world, this week is National Friends of the Library Week. All over the country, libraries are publicly celebrating and thanking the people who band together to work for and support their local library. Here at RML, we are so grateful for our Friends of Reed Memorial Library, a group that is an integral part of our library’s extended family. The Friends put their passion for learning and libraries into practical action.

Their longstanding commitment to our mission is evident in the countless hours spent sorting through and selling donated materials. The funds raised by the Friends have enabled us to purchase much-needed equipment, enrich our summer reading programs, and organize quality events that inform, educate, and engage you.

The biannual sales are when the Friends group is the most visible but in truth, they work throughout the year. At least once a week, some of the Friends are here to sort donations and stock the library bookstore. Just this weekend, a group of Friends hauled in two trailer loads and a pickup truck full of donations into their storeroom. In the coming weeks, they will sort and organize these materials for all of us to purchase in the store.

We asked members of the group why they joined the Friends. The common thread in their answers is a love of reading and a shared recognition of the library’s value in the community.

Nancy Kessler was a Friend of the Euclid library before she moved to Ravenna. “My love of books and libraries was fostered by my parents who read to me before I learned to read.  Then we read together. I have been a Friend for more than 15 years, since I moved to Ravenna. The most important thing I have gained is many new friends.”

Kay Wise grew up participating in Reed’s summer reading programs as a child and later worked as a librarian in the Ravenna school system. She relates, “My friend, Joan Seman, was a kindergarten teacher. We took all the kindergarten students to the library to get their library card and listen to a story. I knew the adventure was a success when a little girl approached me and said, “Mrs. Wise, I’m so excited to have my first CREDIT CARD.” Kay has been an RML Friend for over 20 years.

Friends’ and RML Board member Julie Walz shares why she works as a Friend to make the library succeed. “My love of reading books fostered my love of libraries at a very early age. When I relocated to Ravenna, I quickly signed up for a library card. You are never lonely if you have a good book to read.” We agree, Julie. Many of us have a similar story or experience with the library.

What about you? Do you share the same love of learning and libraries? Are you looking for some like-minded friends? Maybe you should join that inner circle, our Friends of RML. Visit reedlibrary.org/friends or stop in the bookstore and get a membership application. Whatever your level of involvement, the Friends will welcome you and you can support the library in a practical way.

“Thank You” to our Friends of RML, this week and every week. 💗