Southern Pines Public Library and the Town of Southern Pines are celebrating the Friends of the Library during the week of Oct. 19–25, as part of the 20th annual National Friends of Libraries Week.
Established in 1974, the Friends of Southern Pines Public Library is composed of community members who are deeply invested in promoting literacy and lifelong learning. Over the years, the Friends have played a major role in the library’s continued success—providing funding for programs, advocating for library services, and volunteering their time to support community initiatives such as the annual Summer Reading Program.
Friends President Frances Wilson reflected on her experience as a member of the group: “Like many opportunities in life, it was through the invitation and encouragement of a friend that I became a part of the Friends of the Southern Pines Public Library. From my youth until today, going to the local public library has been a special part of my life. Because of this lifelong love, it felt right and important to devote time to support this vital community resource.”
Wilson added, “The Board members of the Friends work closely with our devoted library director and staff to determine how we can help enrich the programs offered to our community. Annual membership contributions to the Friends of SPPL help sustain these programs. In addition to financial assistance, members have opportunities to volunteer at library events and activities supported by the Friends.”
Wilson shared that some of her favorite memories from this past year include hosting a cocoa and cookies event at the library to celebrate the end of a successful Winter Reading Challenge, participating in the Book Distribution Program at a local elementary school and watching children select a book to take home, and greeting families at the Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration on the Sunrise green. Other highlights included welcoming attendees to Pages of the Pines, a festival celebrating local authors, and enjoying fellowship with patrons during a Tea with Friends event.
“The amazing variety of programs for citizens of all ages offered at our library makes me grateful to be part of a volunteer group that champions this beloved local institution,” she added. “For all who love and appreciate the library, I invite and encourage you to join the Friends and help ensure that our library continues to thrive and make a difference in the lives of our community.”
To learn more about the Friends of Southern Pines Public Library or to become a member, please visit www.sppl.net.
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Contributed article/photo.
