Friends of the Library honors volunteers

The Friends of the Library gathered over the weekend to thank their volunteers for their service over the past year.

The Friends of the Library is a group of volunteers who advocate for the Library Center of the Ozarks and work to raise funds for special Friends of the Library projects. Most of the money raised by the Friends of the Library comes from the organization's used book store, located on the lower level of the library.

Volunteers were celebrated at a recent luncheon hosted by the Friends of the Library. (Photo submitted)

The Friends of the Library Board celebrated their volunteers during a luncheon on Saturday, held at the College of the Ozarks' Keeter Center. Board president Dave Dove and Beth Schulz, volunteer manager of the used book store, addressed those in attendance, commending them for their hard work and loyalty. The Board recognized their nearly 20 volunteers. many of whom work with Schulz in the book store, providing customer service, inventory management and store maintenance. Also honored were the Master Gardeners of the Ozarks, who work tirelessly to maintain the library’s exquisite flower beds; Norna Judah, who has faithfully nurtured the library's indoor plants for the past decade; and Alicia Risko, who teaches reading skills to local children.

Said Dove, "The Friends of the Library wanted to show our appreciation for all the hard work our volunteers and the Master Gardeners of the Ozarks do."

In reflecting on the past year and a half, since the former Taneyhills Library became the tax-funded Library Center of the Ozarks, Dove noted, "The Friends of the Library had the pleasure of partnering with the Library Center of the Ozarks to bring Hoopla to our community. We look forward to future opportunities to collaborate and support the library mission. We're also working to ensure the bookstore has everything it needs to continue serving the public effectively. Beth and the dedicated volunteers do a truly outstanding job and we're grateful for their continued commitment to our community."

The Friends of the Library Board is made up of Dave Dove, president; Joyce Coogan, immediate past president; Dana Gunter, treasurer; Mary Lynn Grimes, secretary; and board members Pat Campbell, L.J. Marshak, Marcia Schemper Carlock, Sherri Patton, Alicia Risko and Mona Menezes. 

Those wishing to join the Friends of the Library may do so at any time. Friend memberships are available for a donation of $25 or more. Those donating $250 or more become a Champion. Membership entitles full participation at the organization's annual meeting, including voting for officers and directors.

To become a Friend of the Library, visit the book store in the lower level of the library, located at 200 South 4th Street for more information, or go online at https://lcozarks.com/bookstore.