On October 26, Mollie Smith sent the following letter to city hall:

To whom it may concern:

I would like to brag on one of our city employees. Peggy Jo Jones, the children’s librarian, deserves your praise.

My children and I have been participating in the library’s storytime for the past few years. When Mrs. Jones took over the responsibilities as children’s librarian, she gave her all! Every week she reads with the children and then does some sort of craft or activity with them. She tirelessly prepares materials for about 20 children each week.

I am thankful that my children have the opportunity to participate in such a wonderful program. Jacksonville’s storytime is as good (or probably better) than that in most large cities.

If the city of Jacksonville has an employee of the year, Mrs. Jones deserves the honor!

Sincerely,

Mollie Smith

How wonderful that a patron of the library took time to express thanks to a member of the Library staff -- and to send the letter to the individual’s ultimate supervisors, the City Council!

When is the last time you said "Thanks" to someone on our Library’s fine staff?

The dues have not changed in many years. They are still $25 for a patron, $10 for a family, and $5 for an individual. If you wish to become a life member, the contribution is $100.

One change, however, is that Friends is now a 501(c)(3) corporation entitled to tax exemption under the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions above the value of your membership may be deductible to the donor.

Your tangible membership benefits are this newsletter and early admission to the annual book sale.

The intangible benefit is the satisfaction of saying "Well done!" to a Library that:

• furnishes materials in print, audio, and video;
• furnishes materials in two languages;
• rises to meet the constant challenges of technology;
• includes a museum and a genealogy collection;
• has a director who has been recognized with a lifetime achievement award; and
• motivates a citizen to write a letter such as the one penned by Mollie Smith to commend the superlative children’s section.