There were a record 40 members in attendance at the
2020 Annual Friends of the Library Meeting on January 21.
President Bill Reynolds opened the meeting by stating this was a day for celebration because earlier in the morning, “The Stairs of Death” had been demolished to make way for more accessible steps to be open by Masters. He introduced Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker who praised the Friends hard work and partnership.
Bill reviewed 2019 progress
- adoption of a new Friends logo, launch of a new website,
- contracting with the architecture firm McMillan Pazden Smith
- and formation of a multimillion dollar partnership with Aiken County to renovate the library.
Treasurer Loretta Beckner reviewed projected 2020 income and expenses compared to the previous 3 years as well as Balance Sheets for end of December 2018, 2019 and anticipated 2020.
Library Director Jessica Christian gave an overview of major 2019 activities. ABBE Director Mary Jo Dawson provided an update on the renovation plans (the plans are available for viewing on the Friends website:
https://aikenlibraryfriends.org/
)
Bill Reynolds provided a preview of first step of a capital campaign to support the renovation entitled “ Great communities deserve Great libraries”. He reported word of mouth about the renovation had prompted generous Aikenites to come forward to donate almost $100,000 to support the renovation. More details will be available in the near future.
Nominating Committee Chair Bonny Kania reported the current officers had been contacted and in the interest of continuity of leadership during the renovation, had agreed to serve another term. She asked for additional nominations from the floor and there were none. Officers reelected were: Bill Reynolds President, Mike Hosang Vice President, Treasurer Loretta Beckner and Secretary Dorothy Ridley.
Bill Reynolds asked for any new business, there being none the meeting was adjourned.
