Valley County Friends of the Library Introduces New Character

The Valley County Friends of the Library has introduced a new character this year: Michelle Bigelbach. She took over as chair of the organization in January when Mary Armstrong, the prior chair, stepped down after being elected as county commissioner and sworn in at the beginning of the year.

Bigelbach had not previously served on the board, but has been volunteering her time since September. She has helped staff sort through donations provided by the community, shelved books that have been returned by patrons, assisted patrons, and supported library staff as they needed. Seeing her dedication as a volunteer and patron herself, Armstrong and head librarian Megan Haddix advocated for her to take over as the Friends chair.

Under Bigelbach’s stewardship, Friends have donated funds for the library to purchase books for Valentine’s Day, which were handed out during the library’s weekly story time on Feb. 14. At the Spring Fling Bazaar, scheduled for Saturday, April 6, Friends of the Library will be selling vintage books, DVDs, books on CD and other literary items.

Bibliophiles who cannot wait for April are welcome to stop by the library to peruse the collection of gently used books and other items removed from the library’s circulation, such as DVDs and audio books. All proceeds from these items go to the Friends of the Library.

Funds raised and provided to the group have previously been used to purchase items for the Summer Reading Program, sponsor author visits, update the children’s area bookshelves, and the purchase as well as installation of the chair lift, making it easier for patrons to access the basement.

The mission of Friends is to promote visibility of the library in the community, enhance the library through supplemental funding, promote the love of reading and life-long learning as well as advocate for the library. With Bigelbach’s life-long love for reading and the benefits it provides, she is looking forward to the challenge in fulfilling the mission. “I’m excited to see what the future brings for Friends and for the Glasgow City-County Library. I can’t wait to bring authors to the “middle of nowhere,” host book sales, and share my love of reading with the community,” she said.

Community members who love the library, believe in literacy programs and understand the need to continually improve the library system are encouraged to consider a membership in the Friends of the Library. Quarterly meetings are held at the Cottonwood Restaurant at noon, with the next meeting scheduled for April 25.

Annual membership dues are $15 for individuals and $20 for families. Students, seniors and current or retired library staff may join for $10 per year. Non-profit organizations can purchase yearly membership for $40. Sponsor ($75-124), Patron ($125-249) and Benefactor ($250-plus) member levels are also available.

For more information, please email Chair Michelle Bigelbach at [email protected] or call the Library at 228-2731.