Author Sheila Munro likes libraries. In particular, she is impressed by Powell River’s award-winning “little library that could.”
While making a donation of $1,000 to the Powell River Friends of the Library society, Sheila (daughter of Alice Munro) said “I can’t think of anything Powell River deserves more than a spacious, updated library housing a first-rate collection of new books, movies, music that the ‘Pump Up the Volume’ campaign will provide. It’s been a long time coming and now it’s finally here.”
“We launched our campaign on June 2,” said Pam (Brownie) Brown, president of the society. “Our group has pledged to fund the purchase of 4,000 new items for the library. We aim to provide the technology and tools expected in a modern library and substantially expand the books, music and movies available to the public.”
The friends are thrilled with the support they are already receiving. On day one a consortium of local people approached with a donation of $5,000 and was immediately matched by an anonymous donor. Residents Max and Winnie Ferrier and Esther Dyck donated with the express intention of encouraging others to follow their example.
“We understand many people would like to contribute but have limited funds,” said Brownie. “Donation cans, for small change, will be at select locations and of course the famous book sales will continue.”
The friends have come up with a way to capture donations in print. “Our flagship promotion is the $25 bookplate,” continued Brownie. “For every donation of $25 a bookplate will be placed in one of the new purchases recognizing your support. You can also choose to honour someone significant in your life or as a memoriam.”
For more information, readers can look for the Pump Up the Volumes! logo around town and at the library. To donate, readers can visit the Powell River Public Library website and click the friends link on the left. There is also an account set up for Friends of the Library at First Credit Union.
