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Dear Friends,
On March 12th, Volunteer Co-coordinator Elaine Corman, Senior Librarian Lynn Light, and I attended a citywide Friends symposium at the Central Library. The first hour included a chance to network with other library groups. The balance of the morning was an overview of the workings of our library system, introduced by Fontayne Holmes, our new City Librarian. Evelyn Hoffman, head of the Library Foundation, explained how the Foundation works, and Cecilia Riddle, Director of Branches, presented slides of the branch library renovations. LAPL's Webmaster, Steve Newcomer, also introduced us to the library's extensive IT Department and plans for future technological upgrades. Then we heard a panel discussion from the Webmasters at Studio City, Chinatown, and Platt (our David Perrell) Branches, followed by a question-and-answer period on setting up individual branch websites. Overall, the Friends representatives showed a desire for more frequent meetings in order to exchange ideas and resolve problems. Following the symposium, Elaine and I met with a small group of Valley Friends (5 branches represented) at the Encino/Tarzana Branch. We left with a resolve to meet again.
Previously, in February, Elaine was invited to meet with the Friends of Chatsworth Branch and give them tips on organizing bookstore volunteers.
At our February Board Meeting, the Board voted to donate the proceeds of $200 from the Children's Holiday Boutique to the Canoga Park Elementary School Library for much needed books. The gift was greatly appreciated and was another avenue for the Friends to support the library community.
In March, the library was transformed into a magical theatre. Actor/comedian Shelley Berman spoke eloquently to a record breaking crowd, deftly weaving comedy and history together. He defined comedy by saying, “The comedian reflects us. There is always hope in good humor.” The audience acknowledged him with a standing ovation. We are grateful to Joan Vos, our Program Chair, for arranging such a memorable evening.
But Wait! We have more in store.
Mark your calendars for May 24th. You will have the rare opportunity to hear our next distinguished speaker, Ray Bradbury. This is indeed an evening not to be missed. I have had the privilege of hearing him on several occasions and have always been enthralled with his words. Plus, you'll find copies of Mr. Bradbury's most recent books available for purchase the night of his presentation.
I also hope you'll join us at our gala 10th Birthday Celebration and Book Sale this month. Then on June 18th, board the bus with us when our special membership excursion departs for the Central Library downtown. (Click here to sign up. Seats are limited, so sign up today!)
As you can see FOPL has much to offer. Join us! Get involved, make new friends, and be part of an active, dedicated team.
Frona DeCovnick, President
The Friends of the Platt Library Newsletter is produced and maintained by Hearn/Perrell Art Associates. Editor: Therese Hearn
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