Opening the book on Friends of the Library

If one were able to read a book about Friends of the Library, he or she would learn that it is an organization comprised of a board and about 300 members from both within the Hewlett-Woodmere School District and about 70 members outside S.D. 14.

The first chapter would explain that the group is responsible for sponsoring and co-sponsoring about 20 programs annually at the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library. Members pay dues to support the Friends group.

“We’re very grateful to the community for backing us year after year,” Irene Levy, president of the Friends group, said. Levy has been involved with the organization for a dozen years. It was founded in 1947.

Friends works with the library to enhance community life. “If you have a director who is friendly towards ‘Friends,’ it helps a lot,” Levy said of Library Director William Ferro as well as Assistant Director Tracey Simon.

Nadine Connors, cultural program specialist at the library, said that the support is greatly appreciated. “[It is] an all-volunteer organization, they also use their time to promote the library and call their members to remind them to come out to vote during the budget vote. We have a wonderful relationship with them and depend on them for their support,” Connors said.

The annual Fishman Concert in September; Highlights in Jazz and Feelin’ Groovy musical series; Plaza Players; and 92 St. Y, are among the programs Friends sponsors or co-sponsors

On Oct. 30, a multimedia lecture about the wildlife native to the Five Towns and a program with James Cole, an attorney who worked in the U.S. Department of Justice, on Nov. 11, will take place. Levy said the group is hoping to expand programming for children.

Serving along with Levy are Marlene Berman, vice president of membership; and Iris Gorenberg, vice president of special programs and projects; and Sarah Knecht, vice president of finance. The group meets on the last Thursday of every month at 3 p.m. at the library at 1125 Broadway in Hewlett.