‘Friends of Samuels Library’ mark change of directors; announce new bookstore

Above, Samuels Public Library awaits its new director, set to arrive Monday, Aug. 14; below, retired Director Nicki Lynch is remembered fondly after eight-plus years at the helm. Photos/Roger Bianchini

In its annual report to members, Friends of Samuel Library (FOSL) highlighted the inheritance retired director Nicki Lynch left behind; welcomed incoming director Harold Hayes; and announced its annual meeting for September 7.

The report described the establishment of the “Epilogue” used book store at the entrance to the library, Lynch’s “dream” that opened to the public several weeks ago after what FOSL described as “months and months of planning and design.”

Staffed entirely by volunteers, “Epilogue’s” merchandise consists of used books, DVDs and CDs donated by library patrons. The store was financed by Joyce Jenkins-Wimmer and designed by local architect Fred Andreae. Also contributing to the enterprise was Eileen Grady who worked with Warren County and its contractors “to make it all happen.” Twenty-four volunteers are working two-hour shifts Tuesday through Saturday. More volunteers – stop by the circulation desk and leave your name – are sought to fill out the week.

FOSL is organizing a “meet and greet” for Hayes September 7. Already on the job, he brings with him 27 years experience in library management in Washington, Wyoming and Oregon.

The “Friends” reported on 324 adult programs and programs for children they’d hosted and/or supported during the fiscal year (July 2016 to June 2027) with more than 5,000 people attending. Financially FOSL raised about $3,813 more than it spent during the year, providing money for the library and its programs (71%), the new bookstore (23%) and 3% for administration. It maintains a healthy balance of $6,623.

FOSL announced its “arrival in the 21st century”, establishing its own website: friendsofsamuelslibrary.net