Most libraries in America were established by groups of book-loving volunteers. People donated their books to start the library usually housed in a private home or church. (The Fairfield Memorial Library was established in 1876 and was first housed at the Fairfield Academy building.) Today this partnership continues with 100 volunteers helping at the Fairfield Public Library.
Last Thursday on May 15 we honored our volunteers. The word “volunteer” stems from the French word “voluntier” meaning willing — just like our 100 volunteers who are always willing to help us. These wonderful people contributed close to 3,000 hours of work to the Library this year. About 30 people keep our shelves organized in our adopt-a-shelf program. Teens who need community service hours help us the first Saturday of each month and contributed 228 hours since October. Individuals work alongside us at events such as receptions, concerts, and author programs. Some people conduct special programs for children and help with registration for programs such as the Summer Reading Game. Others help out regularly with mailings. The Art Committee helps to prepare for all the art shows.
We need people right now to help us with our Book Sale. We are expanding the sale and hope to train people to organize, market, and sell books each day of the week. If you are interested please sign up for one of the training sessions next week May 21 at 10 am or 7 pm by registering via our website www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org.
We need people to deliver books to the spinners generously donated by the Friends of the Fairfield Library at Lake Mohegan, the beach, and the train station.
We would love to work with people during receptions, concerts, author talks and other programs. Co-hosting an event is a wonderful way to enjoy a cultural program while helping others.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer email Karen Ronald at kronald@fplct.org or call 256-3158.
