Friends of the Library kick off special patriotic project

The Friends of the Library has begun an exciting new program as they prepare to help Branson become America's Most Patriotic City.

"We have a special program where residents and out-of-town visitors can dedicate a flag to honor a loved one that served in the military, to honor a first responder, or simply to state one's own love of country," explained Beth Schulz, the volunteer manager of the Friends of the Library Used Book Store. "The Used Book Store has a goal of posting 250 American flags by Flag Day, June 14, 2026, just ahead of the 250th celebration of the birth of our nation."

The Used Book Store worked with The Flag Store in downtown Branson, to secure 250 flags in advance of Flag Day. For a nominal donation of $3, customers can dedicate a flag in honor of a loved one. 

Said Schulz, "Patrons can simply stop in the book store and fill out a form, dedicating a flag to honor their friend or loved one. They can describe their position, rank and areas that they served on this form. We then post these descriptions in the library for all to read throughout the year. By Flag Day 2026, we hope to have all 250 flags displayed on our bookshelves, adorning the entire book store in red, white and blue."

The Friends of the Library kicked off this special program just a few weeks ago, and many have already dedicated a flag to their own personal hero.

"Speaking with family members about their loved ones' service is truly an honor," Schulz noted. "We are blessed to have so many American heroes that have served our country and our community. We want our patrons to know that we honor our local military family members, and we want our out-of-state visitors to know that we also honor their military family members."

Flags that have already been purchased can be seen atop the shelves around the book store. Funds raised from this project will help fund future Friends of the Library projects.

The Friends of the Library Used Book Store is located in the lower level of the Library Center of the Ozarks, 200 South 4th Street in downtown Branson. The store is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. except the first Friday of the month, when hours are 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Book Store is also open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.