Ask yourself a few questions: When was the last time you were in the library? Do you have a library card? Are there programs available for your age group?

Most people have no idea of all the services the library provides. What better way to find out than to and see for yourself. Come to the membership event of Friends of the Library from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, at the Judge George Armstrong Library. Delicious hors d’oeuvres, cash bar and a view of what a modern library offers are on tap. No RSVP is necessary, and, no, you don’t have to be an FOL member to come, but we hope you will be when you leave! Bring your children, this is a family affair.

Staff will be available to demonstrate all services and answer questions. Many changes have taken place at your library and we want to share them.

Still think the library is a stuffy place? You should see the teens enjoying popcorn and games in the teen room. Remember Dr. Clifford Tillman? Come check out the reading room in his memory, and enjoy a cup of coffee while you read the newspapers.

Think there is nothing for the kids too young to read? Visit the children’s room full of activity and engaged young ones! Want to join the cyber-age? Computers (and help using them) are available all day for all ages.

Still wondering who “your people are” — a necessary skill in Natchez? The geneology section has the answers. You can even learn a language via the free online program, Rocket Language. Check out our used book sale room where you find good books for a dollar or less.

All you need to access all this is an absolutely free library card — and we’ll happily give you one at the open house.

The Friends of the Library exist to support the library. Each September, we host a social event, “A Gathering of Friends,” to celebrate accomplishments, encourage memberships and introduce new officers.

Yearly membership is affordable: individuals are $10, families are $15 and contributors are $25 or more. This year we will also acknowledge the donors who supported our adopt a shutter and paint your library drive. See the work in progress and enjoy the new heating and air conditioning system which ensures a comfortable climate for the first time in years.

The Christmas Tour of homes is a popular event featuring private homes. While you are marking your calendar for Monday, save Sunday, Dec. 2 for the Christmas Tour. Coral and Richard Byrd, Connie and Pat Burns, Cammie and Bill Dale and Yvonne Murray are opening their homes this year. Refreshments will be at Trinity Episcopal.

Join us for fun, friendship and fellowship Monday.

There is something for all ages. For further information, contact the library at 601-445-8862 or check out the website at www.naw.lib.ms.us.

 

Maria Bowser is the president of the Friends of the Library.