Friends of Valley Center Library celebrate 50 years – Valley Roadrunner
Friends of Valley Center Library celebrate 50 years
The Friends of the Library’s annual meeting celebrated the organization’s 50th year.
Saturday, April 29, the Friends of the Valley Center Library held their annual meeting and concurrently celebrated their 50th anniversary.
The theme was the 1950’s and many people dressed up in 50’s attire including some poodle skirts, puffy dresses, and pink lady jackets. Several people attended. Snacks and refreshments were provided, music was played, and there were antique cars on display. The annual meeting was their first in-person annual meeting since 2020 because of COVID.
At the beginning of the event, Branch Library Manager Laura Zuckerman introduced a certificate of commendation that had been delivered from 5th District Supervisor Jim Desmond’s office, to be presented to the Friends of the Valley Center Library.
Miss Valley Center McKenzie Fisk, and Jr. Miss Valley Center Ashley Pacheco also attended. The Friends of the Library took pictures together. The meeting was brief, and short statements were made by President Moira Neibert, and the Vice President Linda Yeager. Neibert explained, “Everyone has a passion for our mission. There is not one person on the board in the organization who does not believe in what we are doing. We couldn’t do what we do without our board and our workers, so we’re grateful.”
The proposed annual budget was presented by Treasurer Ineke Burrie and approved by voice vote. Members also voted to reinstate Melinda Smylie as membership chairman, Pat Downing as website chairman, Jackie Funk as publicity chairman, and Eva Rosa as newsletter chairman. The reinstated members were approved by the voting members and the meeting was concluded.
After the meeting, Valley Center residents stayed a few hours and enjoyed conversations, more food provided by Shawii Kitchen, and music by Big E Sound’s Erik Jockinsen. There were also 3 antique cars to enjoy. Jim Dorschel brought his 1966 Ford Mustang GT; Rob McIntosh brought his 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle; and Jim Shaefer displayed his 1936 Plymouth Coupe. The Book a Bag Sale was originally scheduled to occur that Friday, but the Library Bookstore continued the sale on Saturday, so people took the opportunity to shop for books.
The Friends of the Library, founded in 1973, plays an important role in how the library functions. They host several events at the library including programs for children and teenagers, and provide fitness classes such as yoga and zumba, while helping the library obtain various materials. According to their pamphlet they are, “an all-volunteer, IRS non-profit 501c3 organization that makes it possible for our library to meet the increased demands of our growing community.” To learn more, email [email protected] or visit their website at vcfol.org.