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PELHAM, N.Y. Sunday marked the beginning of the sixth annual National Friends of Libraries Week, which offers Friends groups a chance to promote its community outreach programs and raise awareness from Oct. 16 to 22. The celebrations also allow library staff and board of trustee members to recognize Friends groups and support local libraries.
Patricia Perito, director of the Pelham Public Library, said she was unaware of the celebratory week, but added that the library constantly appreciates its Friends group.
"We are constantly acknowledging their help throughout the year," Perito said. "Their support pays for all of our programming."
Fliers for programs at the library display messages thanking the Friends for their support and donations. The Friends also host Novel Night, their largest fundraiser, every two years in November.
The celebration was coordinated by the Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations (ALTAFF), a division of the American Library Association with approximately 5,000 Friends of the Library, Trustee, Foundation and individual members and affiliates representing hundreds of thousands of library supporters.
"I'm convinced that the libraries are so much richer for the enthusiasm and expertise that the Friends bring to the Library," said Sally Gardner Reed, executive director of ALTAFF, in a statement. "I hope that libraries across the country will use this week to honor their best supporters the Friends of their Library and use this opportunity to promote and expand their membership in this valuable organization."
Friends groups, library trustees, and library staff can access a variety of online resources to help them celebrate National Friends of Libraries Week. Materials available on the ALTAFF website include promotional ideas, editable publicity materials, camera-ready bookmarks, ideas from past celebrations, and more.
Have you ever donated to the Pelham Public Library? Are you aware of the Friends' contributions? Join the conversation, leave your comment below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DailyPelham.
Contact Pelham reporter Andrew Meola at ameola@thedailypelham.com.
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