(From the November 2013 Circle of Friends Newsletter)
As I write this report, Indian Summer days seem to be the norm for Castro Valley, though the late evening and early morning hours certainly have a nip to them that heralds the upcoming "real" Fall weather. We can use a change, particularly if it brings some much needed rain. However, I am also sure that the prospects of damp weather will not deter the volunteers of the Friends of the Castro Valley Library from their many efforts to support the library. Our BookStore (the only one in Castro Valley!) continues to enjoy great interest from the public, both in the quality of donations and in the many purchases made at our bargain prices. We had a very successful August weekend sale, online book sales continue to gather sales from around the country, and we are preparing for both the annual Holiday Sale in early December along with at least one "flash sale" in mid-November.
About the only recent sad note was the closing of Zocalo Café in San Leandro where the Friends have had a small bookshelf honesty box sales operation for a good number of years. We would be interested in talking with Castro Valley café owners about possibly installing a small bookstore in their café.
I do want to emphasize the upcoming Annual Meeting of the general membership on November 12th. This meeting will mark the fourth anniversary since the opening of the new library. The summaries of library operations by Carolyn Moskovitz, Branch Librarian, by Sheila Keisner & Joan King, our Co-treasurers, and my personal remarks will highlight everything that has been accomplished since Halloween 2009. I think you will be surprised at our reports and gratified that so many members of the Castro Valley community have embraced the library and all that it offers our citizens.
The other major reason for attendance at the Annual Meeting is the election of a President, Secretary, and two At-Large Directors. Our Nominating Committee under the very capable leadership of Jane Kraut has been making a strenuous effort to find members of the Friends to step forward and contribute their knowledge and leadership skills. Please give serious thought to these important positions, suggest citizens who might be interested, or volunteer yourself! Nominees' names will be announced prior to the meeting by email and information posted at the BookStore/Office.
Finally, I have reached the end of my two, two-year terms as President of the Friends. They have been a remarkable four years of working with a wonderful group of volunteers, with the library leadership and staff, and with numerous members of the Castro Valley community. Collectively we have accomplished a great deal. I have made many life-long friends amongst the volunteers and I look forward to continuing to work for and with the Friends in the coming years. Thank you all for the privilege of being able to serve you. With my best wishes.
Ned Lyke, President
Friends of the Castro Valley Library