Submitted by Wilma Allen
Communications Chair
August 3, 2015 7:05 a.m.
With Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library (FOL) approaching its fundraising goal for library improvements, an anonymous benefactor has donated $5,000 of the $35,000 needed to sponsor the local history section. This gift includes a challenge to other local history buffs to join him and cover the remaining $30,000 needed to purchase furniture and collection additions, says Dee Torre, Friends of the Library Campaign Chair. According to Torre, most rooms and special sections in the ‘new’ library have already been sponsored or ‘named’ by donors or in memory of their loved ones.
“Local history is important in our community and is one of only two areas left without a ‘name.’ We are excited that this individual has started this effort to sponsor ‘Friends of Local History’ section.” Currently, the local history section features books, periodicals and other documents relevant to past and current people and events in Nassau County, nearby Georgia, and Florida as a whole. “In addition to physical publications, we need a designated computer and databases so people can access the many other resources that are available online.
Tables, shelving and comfortable work and study areas are also greatly needed,” says Nassau County Assistant Library Director, Janet Loveless. “With additional funds we can add special collections and resources not already available in our community, thus giving patrons free access to local history six days a week.”
The first phase of furniture and equipment purchased with FOL funds is now on order and should arrive soon and we anticipate other orders this fall, Torre said. “We are thrilled to be so close to reaching our goal of a well-equipped library. Thanks to amazing generosity from the community, FOL has raised $1,020,000 of the $1.2 million it promised several years ago to match City and County contributions to this library improvement project.”
To donate to “Friends of Local History” or learn more about naming opportunities, call 904-321-6529 or visit fernandinafol.org, where you can make a donation online, join FOL, renew your membership, purchase event tickets and volunteer.