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A message from our departing Friends President:
On June 3, 2026 I will hold my last meeting as President of the Friends of the Rowley Library (FOL). 11 years of volunteering and supporting the wonderful work the staff of our library is doing is coming to an end.
Few step up these days to volunteer. We have seen many of the same people for many years. I personally rally people last minute begging for helpers to, for example, set up and break down the book sale and sort books during donation days. Despite knowing a ton of our fellow Rowley folks, getting new board members has been like pulling teeth, except for excellent, long-term treasurer Steve. Natali and Andrea recently joined the board and are doing a great job as VP and Secretary.
In 2017 I was asked to take over from outgoing FOL president Tim Young and was elected by a new Friends Board. Tim was also a 1999-2004 building project committee member and major donor fundraiser to fund the building of our beloved library. I had very big shoes to fill. Having been the Friends Secretary for just 2 years with Tim as President, and without previous board experience, combined with being a busy mom and business owner, I was a bit scared. I had an absolutely wonderful time serving as Secretary and then President for all these years. I know I've left a little mark on our community. It fills me with pride and joy to run into so many local folks while walking my dog, shopping, attending local events, and greeting the many book sale shoppers.
It's very hard to fill board positions these days with everyone having busy lives and few people willing to step up voluntarily and readily. I want to thank you, the awesome and friendly staff of our library and my fellow board members. I got to know you all so well and treasure memories of our annual staff appreciation lunches and picking out small holiday gifts for you. I wish you all very, very well. I leave the Friends Board knowing I leave a unique stamp on our library. We accomplished so much, just to name a few: filtered water filling station, lobby tree mural for Friends donations, pollinator garden, refurbished garden benches, new folding meeting room tables among other things. Many significant, highly appreciated grants from the Institution for Savings helped us fund many of these projects. The FOL fundraised passionately adding a 2nd, fall book sale and cookie tin sale. Our extensive fundraising efforts allowed us to give around $10,000 annually to support children's and adult programming. Please consider running for President. Send an email urgently to friendsboard@rowleylibrary.org. The deadline is May 29th. The next Friends Board meeting is June 3th during which time the new board is elected for a 12 month term. Some previous board people may stay on. Experience the joy of doing something awesome for your community. I will support the future President on this happy journey for as long as needed.
Happy spring people.
Siegi😊
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