Help from a friend

Friends of the Waynesboro Public Library is a non-profit organization that raises funds to help the library meet its needs.

The FOL helps provide necessary equipment and materials such as copy and fax machines. They also assist in funding adult and children programs. In the past, the organization helped to remodel the front desk and added computer workstations.

“The Friends of the Library are there to help us. They understand the importance of library services in the community,” said WPL Director Zahir Mahmoud.
As many entities have during the current recession, the library experienced some harsh budget cuts recently. Velma Ryan, president of the FWPL, explained that a $100,000 budget for new books has been cut in half in the past year.

One way that the organization works to create revenue is by holding an annual book sale. The books are donated by the public and can range in purchase price anywhere from 50 cents to $12. Collectibles are also sold at the event similarly priced. The book sale will be held Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday and Friday, from 2 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Members of FWPL, or friends as they are known, are the only people eligible to enter the book sale on Wednesday, before the general public. Friends attain the perk because their membership fees also contribute to raising funds. Those wishing to attend the book sale on Wednesday may become a FWPL member by contributing $10. While friends aren’t obligated to help with events, many do volunteer for the organization, said Mahmoud.

“We have experienced in the past that people will wait outside until we open the doors,” said Mahmoud. Approximately 50 people have been waiting outside in previous years.

People in the community of all age groups attend the event, said Mahmoud, as well as book dealers looking to sell the bargain books at a much higher price.
Ryan estimates that the FOL raises an average of $10,000 with just the annual books sales. Per year, the FWPL brings in about $18,000 by means of membership, donations and the book sale.

“Things that normally I don’t have in the budget, that I [need], the friends try to accommodate that,” said Mahmoud.