To the Editor:

This week marks the 17th annual National Friends of Libraries Week across the United States. Not only this week but all year long the trustees, staff, and patrons of the C.H. Booth Library recognize and appreciate the Friends of the C.H. Booth Library for their continual and untiring efforts at supporting the library.

Their sweat and determination are a constant and powerful cost-savings resource for the community of Newtown. The Friends fund technology, educative programs, books and library materials, and databases like Ancestry.com and Mango Languages (feat. over 70 languages) that the library would not otherwise be able to offer.

Like any individual and corporate donors, the Friends understand that the library is not just a building full of books but a living, breathing agency that responds to patrons in myriad ways.

Through efforts both large and small, ranging from one of the largest and most popular book sales in the state and smaller efforts like holiday boutiques, the Friends provide reliable, consistent benefits and savings to the community and make Newtown a better place.

I am just one of thousands of people who are so grateful to the Friends! For more information check out the website at boothbooksale.org.

Douglas Lord, Library Director

C.H. Booth Library