The Friends of Linebaugh Library is seeking new members for 2022. Members provide support for Linebaugh Library, the Myrtle Glanton Lord Library at Patterson Park, and the Technology Engagement Center, all of which are part of the Rutherford County Library System.

Members can choose from eight different membership levels, including a brand-new Educator’s Membership that is value-priced at $15 per year. All memberships are annual, except for the Lifetime Membership. To join at any level, e-mail follintheboro@gmail.com, come into the library and get a membership brochure at the front desk, or download a membership form by visiting the Support Groups tab at rclstn.org.

Members of the Friends receive a quarterly e-newsletter, access to two members-only book sales each year, and an invitation to the Friends’ annual local author event. Members also have the satisfaction of advocating for literacy and promoting a love of reading in the community.

For 40 years, the Friends organization has been supporting the community’s local libraries by sponsoring programming, helping with the purchase of equipment and technology, and recognizing the staff for a job well done.

In 2021, despite the pandemic, the Friends raised more than $31,000 for the libraries. Funds supported the Summer and Winter Reading Programs, the Pen Pals Program that brings children’s book authors to schools, and the popular Bookmobile, just to name a few. Funds come from membership dues and through the Friends’ book sales, including those at the bookstore in the parking garage of Linebaugh Library and those on eBay.

The Friends has an active Facebook page that regularly provides information about the organization’s book sales, including sales on eBay. You can learn more at https://www.facebook.com/follintheboro