Friends of the Library
Every Library Needs Friends! Won't You Join Us?
We invite all of you who treasure friendship and love books to join us in service to the Eldredge Public Library and to the entire community. For newcomers to Chatham joining the Friends and coming to our library programs is the perfect way to meet new friends!
- Board of Directors
- Our Purpose and history
- Tidings Newsletter
- What do the Friends do?
- Find Activities that Interest You
- How to Join the Friend's
Board of Directors, 2007-2008
Officers
President - Stephanie Bartlett()
Vice President - Emily Jostrand
Secretary - Sharon Oudemool
Treasurer - Joe Gagliano
Directors
Publicity - Sue Poirier
Hospitality & Decorating - Jeanette Pease, Nancy Dietz
Membership - Susan and Martin Buoniconti
Publications - Holly Whiting
Ways & Means - Suzanne Hamilton, Sally Herbst
Book & Author, Volunteer Coordinator - Nancy Groves
Communications Advisor - Liz Van Wye
Programs - Norm Jenkins
Book Sale - Emily Jostrand
Assistant Treasurer - Bob Flaherty
At Large - Barbara Gibson
Our Purpose
Founded in 1979 by a small group of volunteers, the Friends of Eldredge Public Library continues to serve its mission: to support and enhance the library's role in Chatham. The dedication of Friends allows the library to offer services otherwise beyond its financial means and helps assure the Eldredge Public Library's continuing excellence.
The Friends recruit volunteers, sponsor fundraising events for special projects, and provide outreach programs for the community. Examples of the Friends' community offerings include special cultural, educational and public interest programs for people of all ages, children's activities and events, book discussion groups, on-going book and merchandise sales, and library decorating and hospitality to warmly welcome the community we serve. (Adopted by the Friends Board, January 13, 2004.)
"A Beacon of Light"
Established and built just over 100 years ago as his gift to Chatham, native son and philanthropist, Marcellus Eldredge, expressed his hope at the Library's dedication that it "will serve as a beacon of light to guide future generations into easier paths and more pleasant ways..."
Eldredge Public Library is a private, nonprofit corporation governed by its citizen-Trustees. It is supported in part (51% in the year 2005-06) by the Town of Chatham, by a small endowment, and by the contributions of the citizens and patrons.
The Friends of the Eldredge Public Library was organized and incorporated in 1979 to increase public awareness and support for the Library and to supplement the educational and cultural services of the Library. Our first 100-year history is written by Josephine Ives and Sybille Colby in "A Beacon for Chatham," which is available at the Library for loan or for purchase.
What do the Friends do?
Programs
Friends sponsor two semesters of "The Learning Series" of adult courses during Fall and Winter/Spring. Many of the programs offered by the Youth Services Librarian are sponsored by the Friends. We also offer book and author events, community programs and special events throughout the year. Check the Library Calendar of Events for the schedule.
Volunteer Services
Circulation, Clerical, Shelving, Book Repair, Collection Maintenance, Displays, Seasonal and Holiday decorations and floral arrangements
Financial Assistance
For purchase of materials, equipment, subscriptions, software, grants for children's programs, staff-training, website redesign, wireless services, downloading of audio books, museum passes etc.
Museum Passes
The Friends buy passes to many local and regional museums to cover or reduce the cost of your family's admission. Check with the front desk for a pass before your day of departure.
Recognition And Support Of Library Staff & Volunteers
150 volunteers support the Library, reducing the cost of payroll and raising funds to enhance services. Come join us!
Find some activities here that interest you!
Help us in Planning:
- More Public Support
- Musical Performances
- Lectures
- Exhibits
- Year-round Used Book Sales
- Special Fund-Raising Events
Help us with:
- Learning Series
- Book & Author Events
- Receptions
- Decorating and Hospitality
- Mailings, clerical work
- Telephoning
- Sort and manage Book Sales
- Fund-raising projects
- Publicity or posters
- Teaching or presenting programs
Participate in:
- Book Discussion Group
- Writing Group
- Volunteering in the Library
- Service on the Board of the Friends
Would you like to Join the Friends?
Memberships--new or renewal--are welcome anytime.
How to Join
If you would like to pay by check you may pick up your membership envelope at the Library’s Main Desk or fill out and print the form below and mail it with your check to:
MEMBERSHIP
Friends of EPL
P. O. Box 70
Chatham MA 02633
All membership donations to the Friends are tax deductible. FELP, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization.
RENEWALS
The Friends’ Annual Membership Drive starts in September. (Fiscal year: July 1st to June 30th of the following year.) If you haven’t received a mailing, you may pick up the Friends’ membership flyer and donation envelope at the Library and mail in your donation as described above instructions, or join anytime online.
Thank you for your support!