By L.V. Kegley
Arriving in Newport News in the 1980s, the Friends of the Library work to keep the community connected to literary and library resources. Friends of the Library exist across the United States. These organizations are all non-profits meant to support their local library. While each individual Friends group varies, they are each dedicated to the same cause.
Currently based at the Grissom Library branch, the Friends in Newport News also run a bookstore there. With thousands of books, the store acquires its inventory through donations. Recently, the store received a donation of approximately 10,000 books arranged by the library. After receiving such an influx of books, volunteers sorted through and categorized them. During this process, there were a multitude of opportunities for fascinating finds. For example, the rarest book catalogued was worth approximately $140. Ranging from modern releases to mid-century books that are out of print, the store creates a curated treasure-trove for any reader. Several of the donated books are immediately recirculated within the community, such as donations to local schools.
The majority of the funds raised from the book sales support the library programming. The contribution has been more than $20,000 each year. In the past, the library with these funds purchased computers, supported family and youth programming, its Summer Reading Program and the Mayor’s Book Club.
Beyond books, the Friends of the Library help to maintain connections between the locals and the library. For instance, the library hosts an array of events almost every day. Ranging from art events for children to a book club for adults, there are many ways for one to get involved. Additionally, the library provides a place to gain computer literacy through a myriad of courses covering common programs. A key tenet for the organization is ensuring that every member of the community can find something of interest and assistance. Sandra Englehardt, bookstore manager, describes what drew her to this environment. “I love books and I love helping people,” she says.
Englehardt has been involved with the Friends of the Library for several years. After retiring from the navy, she returned to her passion for literature. “After 20 years in the military, it’s a whole different environment, going from the military chain of command to working here with volunteers,” Englehardt says with a smile. Having worked in a library prior, she was already acclimated to this position in the organization. As store manager of almost two years now, Englehardt has found this job incorporates two of her favorite pastimes: books and helping people. With three book clubs and 17 bookshelves, she especially adores historical and banned books.
In addition to Englehardt, the Friends of the Library has volunteers who have served on it board and worked in the store for more than 20 years, showing their dedication and love for the organization and books.
Going forward, Englehardt is hoping to continue growing community involvement within the organization. In particular, she intends to garner more volunteers. There is great focus on selling the current collection of books. Likewise, raising awareness of the resources available to everyone in the community is an ongoing priority. Fundamentally, Englehardt emphasizes the sense of fulfillment and self-worth that comes from this work. Throughout her life, she has dedicated her time to various volunteer careers. As she states, “What is life about but doing things you perceive as worthwhile and enjoyable?”
Ultimately, the Friends of the Library in Newport News continues to provide the possibility for anyone to find something worthwhile and enjoyable.
TO THE POINT:
Friends of the Library
Address: Grissom Library, 306 DeShazor Dr., Newport News, VA 23608
Contact: library.nnva.gov/265/Contact-Us
Phone: 757-369-3190
Website: www.library.nnva.gov/230/Friends-of-the-Library
