“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” These words of American educator Charles William Eliot – written over 150 years ago – are as true today as they were then. And while technology is changing how we read (e-readers and smartphones for examples), there is nothing quite like reading from a book.
One community group who knows the value of books is he nonprofit Friends of the Library.
Twice each year, the Friends of the Library host a Book Sale. Hundreds of donated books line tables, with all of the proceeds helping fund the numerous programs and purchases of the New London Public Library.
Brian Mathu, an American and global studies and world history teacher at New London High School, organized a book drive with all book donations going toward the Friends of the Library Book Sale in May. Mathu’s 9th grade and 10th grade students donated over 225 books toward this cause.
Any members of the public who are interested in donating books for the Friends of the Library Book Sale, or anyone with questions about the New London Public Library or Friends of the Library, can visit www.newlondonlibrary.org/about/friends-library or contact Library Director Ann Hunt at 920-982-8519 or Friends of the Library Board President Connie Zolkoske at 920-982-3388.
Not only will donations benefit the community, but donated books might find happy readers (and donors will have a bit more space at home, too).