To the Editor

If you were in the library during the last part of April, you may have noticed some extra activity as the Friends of the Library collected hundreds of donated books and materials to prepare for their Spring Used Book Sale, held April 27-28, in partnership with the AAUW.

Every year, the library receives financial support, as well as service and advocacy from the Friends of the Library. An independent non-profit organization, the Friends group works to raise money, and its volunteers give hundreds of hours to support library programs and services to the Austin community.

The Friends work tirelessly for weeks to organize two used book sales each year—one in the spring (with the AAUW) and one in the fall. Funding from the Friends helps support the library’s Summer Reading Club programs, purchase special equipment (such as the new Microfilm Reader in 2016), and fund performers and programs throughout the year.

On behalf of the Austin Public Library, the library staff and I wish to express sincere appreciation to our wonderful and hardworking Friends of the Austin Public Library.

In addition, I would like to thank the Austin community for its ongoing support of the book sales and the library. The book sales would not be possible without the generously donated books and materials provided by so many. Many thanks to those who donated items for the sale, and to those who attended it. Together, this community helped the Friends and the AAUW bring in over $6,000 to support the library and scholarships for local students.

We are fortunate to live in a place where people value the public library and show their support in such tangible ways. The library’s goal is to connect people with resources that foster literacy, equity and community in a safe, comfortable space. The Friends of the Library help us make that happen.

Sincerely,

Julie Clinefelter

Austin Public Library Director