A Friends of the Library group is just like that – a group of volunteers who come together to support and promote their local library.
Goulburn Valley Libraries hosts five friends groups, who support the library in a myriad of ways.
Friends’ groups conduct fundraising activities such as the Mooroopna Friends annual plant and book sale, lucky prize draws and regular book sales.
The Euroa Friends operates a second-hand book shop, others support knitting groups in the library or assist staff at community events.
Funds raised are put towards resources for children’s activities, the purchase of smaller equipment and collection support in the form of magazine subscriptions.
Our friends groups assist in catering for library events and activities and are consistently promoting the library and our services to the community.
Perhaps the most important means of support is in the delivery of the Home Library Service.
Reading can be a major contributor to a person’s health and wellbeing, as well as maintaining an active brain.
The Home Library Service is available to people who can no longer visit the library — it may be a permanent arrangement or on a short-term basis.
The volunteers deliver books and other library items to the person’s home, whether it is a private residence or an aged-care facility.
Friendships often develop between the volunteers and the recipient, contributing to a sense of community and connectedness.
Home library members have the same free access to the library collection, being able to borrow books, magazines, audiobooks and DVDs and request specific titles.
The selection of books is tailored to each individual member, and deliveries are usually made monthly.
Operations manager Jenny Wyllie praised the contribution of volunteers.
“Our volunteers, whether they are part of a friends group or not, play an important role in our libraries, helping our community members feel connected and spreading the word of the importance of libraries as community hubs,” Jenny said.
“Their efforts are very much appreciated by GV Libraries.”
HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER?
For further information about the Home Library Service, Friends of the Library groups or volunteering opportunities at Goulburn Valley Libraries, contact your local library or email gvlibraries@gvlibraries.com.au
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