Meet Our Best Friends: Williamston Branch

Friends of WM.jpgIn case you haven’t heard, we’re celebrating National Friends of Libraries Week from Oct. 15-21 by featuring our Friends groups. Today we’re featuring the Friends of the Williamston Library.

We spoke with Friends of the Williamston Library President Karen O’Connor, who’s been a member for nearly 20 years and says joining was a “logical choice” because she knew she wanted to be involved with the library in some capacity.

“Being a volunteer is dedicated work and it’s rewarding to see how your support gives back to the community,” said O’Connor.

During her time as a Friend, the group has hosted several book sales to fund library events and purchase items needed by library staff. The Friends’ most recent project consisted of helping bring artwork to the library’s walls and providing a permanent space to display pieces by local artists.

We’re talking about Art Williamston, an art gallery housed within CADL Williamston. The Friends partnered with the board of Art Williamston to donate funds, supplies and equipment to display the artwork. The gallery features a new exhibit quarterly and focuses on a diverse range of subject matter, mediums and styles. Follow Art Williamston's Facebook page to learn about upcoming exhibits. 

O’Connor says the Friends are currently hosting book sales on the first Friday of the month (with some exceptions). You can learn more about their book sales on their Facebook page. And if you’re looking to get involved, O’Connor says the Friends are always in need of volunteers.

Friends of the Libraries.jpg“I’m so grateful for all the Friends do to support and advocate for the library and our services. Their generosity and dedication have made it possible for us to provide fun programs like Battle of the Books for middle school students and the Page to Stage program with the Williamston Theater. They have also funded prizes and programs for our Summer Reading Challenge for many years as well as providing refreshments for our holiday open houses,” said CADL Williamston Head Librarian Julie Chrisinske. “The Friends are huge supporters of reading and literacy in our community, often donating used books for kids during events. If you’re looking for a worthwhile group to volunteer with, look no further than the Friends of the Williamston Library!”

Ready to become a member? Visit www.cadl.org/friends to learn more about our Friend groups and how you can get involved.