BRICK – The Friends of the Brick Library were honored during a recent Township Council meeting when Mayor Lisa Crate presented five of their members with a Proclamation declaring October 20-26 as National Friends of Libraries Week in the Township of Brick.
The group is made up of volunteers that support the library as a vital community resource through advocacy, fundraising, programs, donations and volunteerism, with a mission statement “Connecting People, Building Community, Transforming Lives.”
Some of their past fundraising activities include book sales, bus trips, bake sales and more.
“The Friends of the Brick branch of the Ocean County Library enables our library to move from good to great by providing resources for additional programming, equipment, support for children’s summer reading and special events throughout the year,” said the mayor, who is a former librarian.
The work of the Friends of the Library highlights the fact that the Brick Library is the cornerstone or hub of the community, providing opportunities for the joy of lifelong learning, and connecting with thoughts and ideas of others of all ages, she said.
The Friends of the Library understand the critical importance of well-funded libraries and advocate to ensure that our library gets the resources it needs to provide a wide variety of services to all ages, including access to print and electronic materials along with expert assistance in research, reader’s advisory, and children’s services, the mayor said.
“The Friends’ gift of their time and commitment to the library sets an example for all in how volunteerism leads to positive civic engagement and the betterment of our community,” Mayor Crate said before presenting the group with the proclamation.
Friends President Elaine Salto thanked the mayor for the Proclamation. She also thanked the other volunteers and all the patrons who come to the library for their success.
Councilwoman Marianna Pontoriero said the community does not take enough advantage of the library’s resources.
“For example, I recently learned by going online that I could sign up for my library card electronically, and they would have it printed for me when I went to the library…blown away! ” she said.
Councilwoman Melissa Travers said the library had become a place over the summer for her children, ages 9 and 7, to enjoy many of the activities, including scavenger hunts.
“It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for something to do,” she said.
Councilman Derrick T. Ambrosino said he and his family are huge patrons of Brick Library and other libraries in Ocean County.
For more information on joining the Friends, visit the Ocean County Library site and fill out an online form.
The Friends of the Brick Library meet at 10 a.m. on the first Wednesday of the month in September, October and November.
The December meeting and luncheon begins at 11. There are no meetings in January and February. Meetings resume in March, April and May at 10 a.m. The June meeting and luncheon begins at 11. There are no meetings in July and August.
The next council meeting will be on Tuesday, November 12 at 7 p.m.
