On the advice of the Library director, the purchase of a microfilm reader/printer has been postponed. If you, as a member, have suggestions for the use of Friends funds to benefit the Library, please make them known to a director: Barbara Greig, Claudine Mellinger, or Frances Whiteside.


FRIENDS PURCHASE DIES FOR USE OF CHILDREN’S LIBRARY SERVICES

A set of dies to use in the crafts sessions at weekly storytime has been donated to the children’s section by Friends.

Storytime resumes Wednesday, September 6, at 10:30 a.m.

In the early 1960s, a new wing was built on the old library building on Bolton Street, with 812 square feet designated for the Vanishing Texana Museum.

Articles were donated and assembled by descendants of early Jacksonville residents. Mrs. Frank Ebaugh, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Brown, an early pioneer family, gave many of the articles from her family. She acted as coordinator to establish the museum and served as curator for many years.

There was a separate museum board for some years, but the museum is now managed by a committee of the Library board.

The museum contains exhibits of articles dating back to the founding of Jacksonville. Also found are some fine pieces of early Indian pottery, baskets, and arrowheads, all of which were found in this area.

The exhibits display personal items, clothing, toys, tools, dishes, implements, guns, and furniture that chronicle the history of Jacksonville. There are over 400 articles on display, plus more in storage for lack of display space.

(Editor’s Note: Besides being curator of the Vanishing Texana Museum, Dona Ralston maintains the ongoing book and magazine sale table for Friends. She is a member of the Library’s Board of Trustees.

Friends salutes Mrs. Ralston for her years of service to the Library.)