Friends of the Library host annual membership drive

The Friends of the Lincoln County Library is currently in the midst of its 2008 membership drive. Pictured with books purchased for the library by the volunteer organization are: (front row, l-r) Cindy Juhasz, Jaquan Leverett, Macy Hill, (back row) Shelby Hinson, Tynecia Garnett, and Crystal Juhasz.

Those who wish to be part of the best rural library in the State of Georgia are encouraged to join the Lincoln County Friends of the Library (FOL) during the organization's 2008 membership drive.

The FOL makes many valuable contributions to the library's inventory as well as the services it offers to the public. The volunteer organization:

.. Purchases children's books, including books for the annual Summer Reading Program. The group also covers the cost of bringing in special guest speakers for the program and purchases incentives such as bookmarks, toys, candy, and bookbags for the children.

.. Purchases Christian fiction as well as westerns for the adults.

.. Helps maintain the Cullars- McCrimmon Computer Center and the John Cullars McCrimmon Genealogy Room.

.. Purchases magazine subscriptions.

.. Hosts and funds social and educational events such as open houses and presentations by a variety of guest authors, including Lincoln County native Tom Poland, romance novelist Janelle Taylor, non-fiction writer Jacklyn Weldon White, and historians Randall Floyd, Ed Cashin, and "Cowboy Mike."

.. Purchases DVDs for children.

.. Holds two massive book sales each year, one in conjunction with the Lewis Family Homecoming and Bluegrass Festival and the other as part of the Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce's Holidays in Olde Lincoln Towne Festival.

Along with the December book sale, the organization likewise hosts the "FOL Winter Festival," which features activities for children and tons of food, including the group's signature dish: chicken and dumplings.

.. Sponsors fund-raising activities such as the sale of heirloom Christmas ornaments; Lincoln County heritage blankets; calendars, showcasing vintage photographs of local people and places; and homemade bread, baked weekly by Paula Drew.

"The members of the FOL mean a great deal to the library," said Library Director Shirley Dawkins. "Without their support, we would not be one of the most talked about libraries in the East Central Georgia Regional Library System. People would be amazed if they knew how many compliments our small library gets."

She went on to explain that the state allots only $3,000 a year to the library for the purchase of books. "This doesn't go very far, so it's up to the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and the FOL to purchase the books needed to keep us current."

In other remarks, Dawkins noted that over the course of a year, the library handles approximately 5,000 transactions per month. "According to Machell Fashion, assistant director of the regional library system, we are busier than the Appleby Branch Library in Augusta."

In closing, the director encouraged all local residents to join the Friends of the Library and help make a difference in the community.

Organized in 1996, the FOL's first president was Elizabeth Estes. She is now the secretary for the group, with Shela Bentley serving as president and John "Dusty" Rhodes as treasurer.

Currently, there are approximately 125 members of the FOL and more are needed if the Lincoln County Library is to remain one of the best small-town libraries in the state.

The annual dues are tax deductible. The membership categories are as follows:
.. Individual - $5.
.. Family - $15.
.. Patron - $50.
.. Sponsor - $100.
.. Lifetime - $150.
.. Organization - $20.
.. Business - $40.
Membership dues may be dropped off at the library on Peachtree Street or mailed to the Friends of the Lincoln County Library at P.O. Box 310, Lincolnton, Georgia, 30817.

Along with financial support, the FOL is also in need of members who will actively participate in helping expand the services offered by the library to all county residents. The group is looking for individuals who will help with fund-raising, publicity, children's programs, hospitality, cultural programs, and telephoning.

To volunteer to serve in any of these capacities, call the library at 706-359-4014. Your support is needed.