Friends of the Library

Friends-of-the-Library is a dynamic and diverse group that is interested in the library. This group appeals to people who love to read but that is not a requirement. Members often are knowledgeable about computers and enjoy writing. Providing a community for like-minded students is an important goal for the group.

The group meets weekly during Flex period on Mondays in the library. Mrs. Bonnie Morris, Librarian, is the advisor. Friends-of-the-Library started in 1997 with a group of four girls. Today it has over 45 members, boys and girls, grades 9-12.

Annually, the group shops for new library books. The library dedicates a significant portion of the budget to the group for the selection of new books. Who better to find books students need and want to read than students themselves? The books are processed and saved for display at the Thanks-a-Latte event each April. On that day an author is invited to speak to the student body and sign books in the library following the presentation. Coffee and cookies are served in the library as patrons view the new books which had been selected by the Friends-of-the-Library.

Some of the featured authors include: Lorna Lanvig, Faith Sullivan, Garrison Keillor, and William Kent Krueger. The featured author for 2011 is award-winning mystery writer, Julie Kramer.

The group has collected books to donate to students at Cooper Elementary School, created an online forum for the group, enjoyed movies on the “big screen” in the Fine Arts Center, had a lock-in in the library and computer lab, visited the Anderson Library and the University’s underground archives, and traveled together on a ski-trip. Activities evolve based on the group and needs of the library that arise.

There are no requirements to be in the group, just an interest in being part of a literate community.