Friends of the Library
Press Release
Submitted by Wilma Allen
Communications Chair
June 4, 2015 10:30 a.m.
Gifts for Library Top Million Dollar Milestone
To help furnish the new and improved library click here.
The Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library (FOL) has now raised over $1 million for their Campaign to Improve the Fernandina Beach Library.
“We are thrilled to announce that contributions from individuals and businesses have now reached $1,002,000” said Dee Torre Kaufman, FOL Vice President and Campaign Chair. “This puts us just $198,000 shy of $1.2 million needed to match the city and county’s contributions to library upgrades. We are deeply grateful for this incredible support. It shows that our library is cherished in this community, but that individuals and businesses place a very high value the services it provides.
The library building at 25 N. 4th Street in the historic downtown, is owned by the City of Fernandina Beach. The Nassau County Public Library System operates the library. Construction of an addition to double the library’s size began in February 2014, and renovations of the existing building began last fall. FOL contributed approximately $500,000 to construction and renovation and is purchasing needed new furnishings and equipment. These will become property of the Nassau County Library System for use in the Fernandina Beach branch.
Some new furniture and equipment, including child friendly computer stations in the new children’s room, is already up and running. More is currently on order, Torre said. “We’ve been working closely with Library Director, Dawn Bostwick, to prioritize equipment needs and maximize our purchasing power. In coming months, new computers and work stations, the main service desk, self-serve checkout equipment, shelves, computers, desks and other items will be installed,” she said. Additional equipment will be added as funds become available.
With close to $200,000 still needed, FOL is inviting all who have not yet contributed to the campaign or visited the new library, to stop by and take a look. According to FOL president, Bill Flynn, the building is bright, beautiful, and welcoming for everyone in the family. “When fully equipped and furnished it will be a tremendous resource for all to enjoy for many generations to come,” he said. “The entire community is the beneficiary of this incredible support.”
For more information on naming opportunities and other ways to help, visit the library, 25 N 4th Street, or FernandinaFOL.org where you can make a secure gift. You may also contact Friends of the Library, PO Box 17155, Fernandina Beach, FL 32035, call (904) 321-6529 or e-mail [email protected].