For some, the term library evokes images of dark aisles stacked with dried-up old books, a place filled with antiquated decorum, and a mean old lady behind a desk reminding you to “stay quiet.”
None of those images exist in reality at the Kewanee Public Library- a community center filled with energy and bright colors, excited groups of people sharing information, and a welcoming atmosphere where employees want nothing more than to offer help.
The Friends of the Library organization has helped the Kewanee Public Library maintain a connection to community members of all ages.
The overall purpose of the Friends of the Library is to support the library in any way possible. One primary goal is supplementing public library funding to provide enrichment activities and resources that are not paid for by the state.
For example, it is the Friends who plan and host guest speakers and community programming, including book clubs, crafting sessions, technology lessons and more. They also put together prize baskets for library patrons and smaller prizes to encourage summer reading.
Recently the Friends purchased a Cricut machine that will cut and draw shapes on paper and other materials for the library to use to create their own more personalized prizes.
The Friends have also requested wish lists from each department to help guide their spending. Some members of the organization even volunteer to lend a helping hand within the building itself. These are just a few of the ways the Friends have supported the mission of the KPL.
Most notable is the Friends of the Library Hog Days Book Sale. This event, supported in large part by Johnson Appliance and Bill Breedlove, is a successful way for the group to raise funds each year.
All the books for sale are donated throughout the year and sold for monetary donations where the customer essentially names the price.
The mantra of the Friends is “You donate, we appreciate,” as they gratefully accept the donations of any books and any amount of money. Anyone wishing to donate can take gently-used books or cash to the front desk at KPL, where one can also find membership forms for new members of the Friends of the Library organization.
The library has some amazing updates, offering a perfect blend of the old and the new. Of course there are the traditional stacks of books, but there are also e-books, audio books, and an extensive video collection available, all free of charge.
The children’s section contains all kinds of puzzles, games, and toys, and there always seems to be some event or project to get kids excited about reading.
Some of the most valuable treasures are found in the basement, which boasts an impressive computer lab with extensive technological assistance. Library employees are happy to help with personal tech-devices as well as those offered at the library.
Among the non-fiction books, patrons can also find an elaborate collection of graphic novels. In the frequently-updated Young Adult section, a new video game station is being installed with several popular gaming systems.
All of these services and more exist for free, for all members of the community. Kewanee Public Library is a gathering place for people of all ages. They aim to educate, of course, but also to provide a safe space for people to connect.
KPL is a living entity, constantly evolving to fit the needs of the community. The Friends of the Library intend to keep the library engaging and relevant long into the future
Residents can support the Friends of the Library by signing up as a member, donating books or money, and checking out this year’s book sale during Hog Days.
