(From the February 2014 Circle of Friends Newsletter)
I am humbled by the amazing warm welcome I have received as the new president of the Friends. The Friends of the Castro Valley Library are truly an amazing group of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure continued support of our beautiful library. I have had the privilege of talking with many of our volunteers over the past few months. Each and every individual shared their commitment to the continued success of the Friends. This commitment from so many individuals is the reason that I am confident that we will continue to be an important part of the Castro Valley community.
The BookStore continues to be a great service to the community as well as a great fund raiser for the library. We serve the community in two important ways – accepting donations and selling used books at very reasonable prices. I enjoy seeing the relief on the faces of people when they know their beloved books are going to good use. As most of you know, it is difficult but necessary to part with some of our books, so it is a great relief to know that they are going to a good cause. It is also wonderful to watch people shop; so many people find just what they want and are delighted at the minimal cost. The children are especially fun to watch shop.
The December book sale was well attended and appreciated by the greater community. Thousands of books were moved from storage to the library, organized, sold to the eager buyers, the leftovers re-boxed and sent on to a good cause, and for the first time we were able to accept credit cards at a major sale. This all happened in the span of five days with the help of many volunteers and some special help from the Castro Valley High School Interact Club. Congratulations to all who participated in any way.
The Friends of Castro Valley Library is an important organization for everyone in the community. It is especially important for all of us who are lucky enough to be one of the volunteers. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who make this organization work.
Jane Kraut, President