In Celebration of National Friends of the Library Week ...

I grew up in a small town in Southern California, a citrus ranching town. Our population was a mix of races similar to Berryville. Up the road was an artistic community, not unlike Eureka Springs. We lived on Pleasant Street; now I live in Pleasant Valley. Berryville is the only home I’ve ever chosen for myself without a job or relationship as a driver. Why? Perhaps it’s a comfort and familiarity. But a lovely friend I met over 20 years ago through the publishing business played a huge role.

Carroll County lost author and artist Lin Wellford over a year ago; she was a major supporter of the Carroll County Library system and an engine behind Books in Bloom. Lin introduced me to kayaking in NW Arkansas and also to the library. So when I moved here two summers ago, I joined the Friends of the Berryville Library. Through spending time at the library, I am increasingly impressed with the caliber of the staff and leadership. In my professional life, I have worked with hundreds of organizations across the world and have rarely found the level of ability and commitment that’s present at the Berryville Library. I can only imagine what they will do with additional space!

Berryville has outgrown its library. To paraphrase the saying, sometimes you have to travel around the world to fall in love with the library next door. So, in celebration of National Friends of the Library Week, give your globe a spin and take a close look at supporting the Berryville Library. Participate in one of our free events such as the Nov. 4th, 10 a.m. “Telling Your Story,” with author and historian Dale Ross at the Berryville Community Center. Please also consider joining the Friends and supporting the building campaign!

— Elaine Floyd Vice President, Friends of the Berryville Library