Title
Proclamation Declaring October 15 through 21, 2017 at Friends of the Alameda Free Library Appreciation Week. (Library)
Body
Proclamation
Whereas, in 1974, a small group of concerned Alameda residents met to discuss ways in which they could help the needs of the Alameda Free Library, and on March 25, 1975, the “Friends of the Alameda Free Library” organization was officially formed; and
Whereas, this small but dedicated group of “Friends” began organizing an annual used book sale to raise funds to build a new library by sorting book donations every Monday for the past 42 years which translates to over 65,000 volunteer hours in addition to the over 85,000 hours working the 3-day book sales; and
Whereas, the Friends of the Library generously donate the funding and their time for numerous special programs such as the summer reading program for children, the teen advisory board, craft and book discussion groups, author programs, various programs and services for Alameda Reads and Art Docent lectures, simply at the request of library staff; and
Whereas, in 2000, the Friends of the Library assisted in the successful Measure O campaign, which passed with a 78% affirmative vote, to help fund the construction of the new Main Library and provide funding for neighborhood library improvements; and
Whereas, the Friends of the Library have supplemented the materials collection budget and funded the purchase and installation of electronic message boards at all three libraries; and
Whereas, the generosity and hard work of the Friends of the Library extends to the operation of Dewey’s Friends Café in the Main Library, which requires about 24 volunteers a week in two-hour shifts and a dedicated steering committee; everyone is invited to volunteer; and
Whereas, the commitment by the Friends of the Library to support our Library by organizing and hosting book sales, staffing the Café, and producing the popular “Live @ the Library” concert series, have funded over $1.26M in programs, equipment and “ideas” for the Alameda Free Library for over 40 years.
Now therefore be it resolved, that I, Trish Herrera Spencer, Mayor of the City of Alameda, hereby proclaim October 15-21, 2017 as
Friends of the Alameda Free Library Appreciation Week
in the City of Alameda and join the Library Board in urging all citizens to support our Friends of the Library by supporting their book sales, attending the concerts, socializing in the café, volunteering your time, and participating in its celebration.
Trish Herrera Spencer
Mayor