History of Friends

The original Friends of Stinson Library District was formed in October 2001 for the purpose of building community support for the library and it's programs and services. "Friends" as it has become known to many, was founded as an association of individuals, civic organizations and local businesses who worked in support of the library district by assisting in specific projects by conducting used book sales.

The role of the group has grown somewhat since it's conception and now in addition to assisting in specific projects, "Friends" recommends and funds new programs, projects and services for the library. Friends of Stinson is a not-for-profit corporation.

Governance is provided by an eleven member board of directors, all of whom are volunteers elected by the members of the corporation at the annual meeting held on the first Monday of July each year. This is held at Stinson library at 10:00 am and is open to everyone who shares a desire to see the local library district succeed in it's role in the continued growth and development of our community.

Current Activites of Friends

A new Building and Grounds committee was established in 2012 to assist the library in maintaining and improving this historical building. To address security issues an outside lighting was replaced and a camera security system was installed by Friends.

Friends has started the lengthy process of applying for National Historic Landmark status for the library. If obtained, this would give the library access to federal grant monies from the National Park Service for maintenance and preservation of the library. It could take three years or more to acheive this goal. We have been informed that our library is on the schedule for review this fall (2016).

The library has been on the National Historic Register since 1978.

Meetings

Regular meetings are held the first Monday of each month at 10:00 am in the basement of Stinson Library. Visitors and members are always welcome.

Membership

Dues are $5 per year or $10 for 2 years and expire June 30 of each year.

Lifetime membership is $100. Look for your name engraved on a plaque displayed at the library.

2018-2019 Officers

President: Jackie Beatty

Vice President: Carole Larsen

Treasurer: Jan Hunter

Assist. Treasurer: Earl Miller

Secretary: Alice Kerns

Board and Committee Members:

Marilyn Keller, Susan Hase, Andrea Witthoft, Alan Stanley, Tammy Woodrum, Terry House