Scott Williams, swilliams@wolfrivermedia.com
Contributed Photo Delivery driver Liz Vukelich prepares to deliver a new batch of materials at a summer school site using the library’s new van purchased earlier this year.
Contributed Photo Standing next to the new library van are board members for the Friends of the Shawano County Libraries Inc., from left: Lolly Bower, Marsha Hoeffs, Geri VanDeLoo, Anita Hartman, Donna John, Rosemary Rueckert, Ila Moede, Marlene Krema, Fran Johnson and Mary Ann Gehr.
At a time when resources are scarce for public libraries, Shawano County libraries are getting by with a little help from their friends.
The private group known as Friends of the Shawano County Libraries Inc. has helped to purchase a new van that replaces the old and outdated countywide bookmobile.
The group donated more than half of the $23,000 needed to purchase the van, which delivers books and other library materials to patrons at off-site locations countywide.
It was the friends group’s largest donation in recent memory, adding to a long list of earlier contributions involving new technology, programming, funding and more for Shawano County libraries.
Kristie Hauer, director of the Shawano City-County Library, said the group has made a meaningful impact by reaching out and supporting libraries in many different ways.
“They really meet a big need in the community,” Hauer said.
On the occasion of this week’s National Friends of the Library Week, which continues through Saturday, the friends group is reflecting on its efforts over the years to help make sure that Shawano area residents have access to the best public libraries possible.
In addition to the city-county library, the group’s efforts benefit branch libraries in Birnamwood, Bonduel, Mattoon, Tigerton and Wittenberg.
Marsha Hoeffs, treasurer of the group, said that with libraries coping to make ends meet on lean tax-funded budgets, the private organization recognizes the importance of its work to supplement those public resources with whatever the group can provide.
The organization of about 50 members holds two fundraisers annually and meets with library officials throughout the county to stay abreast of what each branch needs.
In recent years, the friends have distributed annual grants of $1,500 to each library branch. Other donations have equipped the libraries with book carts, video games, electronic books and readers, furniture, children’s games and enhanced WiFi capabilities.
Earlier this year, library administrators decided to replace their old bookmobile vehicle because it was outdated and no longer served its purpose very well. The friends contributed $13,000 and the old bookmobile was sold for $10,000 to cover the cost of a new van.
By delivering books and other materials rather than requiring patrons to climb on board, the van has increased the number of off-site patrons receiving materials each month. The van visits nursing homes, schools, day care centers and other places throughout the county where people lack easy access to regular libraries.
Members of the friends group said that while the cost was significant, they are pleased with the new van and how effective it has become.
Lolly Bower, president of the group, said she is excited to hear that the van is reaching more people who otherwise might never use a library.
“The van is certainly the biggest way we can do that,” Bower said.