The Port Orchard Friends of the Library currently boasts 16 members. Some have volunteered for decades, while others joined recently, blooming the group from just two members a few years ago. They say the group expresses "a diversity of experience." It shows.
Lisa volunteered to continue doing meaningful work in retirement, Bernie wanted to make friends after moving to the area, Leah sought entry-level bookselling experience, Sam loved spending time with fellow book lovers, and Maya was winding down a career in antique books and wanted to stick close, "it's my jam!"
Friends say they joined because they care deeply about the work and stay because they care deeply about each other. "People honor each other," said one member, while the others paused from their shelving to nod in agreement.
All money raised in fundraisers and sales from their in-library bookshop support the branch—funding children's programming, supporting library classes for adults, and purchasing items to support staff, like a new refrigerator and a comfy recliner chair for the break room.
Rebecca Guthrie was a driving force behind the group for years, while Susan Rosapepe, the current President of Port Orchard Friends of the Library, says she wants others to know they are always welcome to join in whatever capacity and for whatever length of time works for them. For some, it's a stepping stone in their life and career; for others, it's a community they volunteer with every week for decades.
Friends of the Library groups are organized at most Kitsap Regional Library locations. The Friends are always looking for donations (especially gently-used fiction) and volunteers. Join in; your Friends group needs you!
Learn more at KRL.org/friends, opens a new window.
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