I have been reading articles in the local history section of the library website about the 160-year history of libraries in Santa Cruz city and county over the years, and about the involvement of this community in the growth and success of the library.
Over 100 years ago, Sam Leask spent his own money to make the long trip to the East Coast to lobby Andrew Carnegie to increase his grant so that Santa Cruz could get its first Carnegie Library. Since 1979, The Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries is a volunteer and donor supported organization with a very hardworking volunteer board and campaign committee!
As we keep moving forward on the Realizing the Promise of Measure S capital campaign, we have so much gratitude for our wonderful volunteers and generous donors. We won’t achieve our goal without everyone’s involvement. Thanks to all who have been passing the message along through their social media presence, conversations and emails. Every little bit helps to get us closer to reaching our goal.
As supporter Bob Fifield wrote to me recently, “Opening a book opens the opportunity for an education. Opening a library, opens so many books and opportunities for an endless education.”
Let’s make sure that those opportunities continue for many years to come in Santa Cruz.
Finally, on a personal note, our great friend, former Santa Cruz Mayor, community activist, campaign volunteer, and lifelong supporter of the library, Cynthia Mathews, has recently suffered the loss of her longtime partner and husband Bill Mathews. Cynthia, our hearts go out to you, and we hold you and Bill, and your family, in our thoughts and our prayers.
