The Friends of the Library held their annual general membership meeting, “Back to the Future,” on Saturday, Jan. 22.
Amalia Chedraue, president, thanked Jim LaLonde, former Belleville resident, for displaying his DeLorean automobile during the afternoon.
Chedraue gave the Annual Report for 2010:
“Back in 2005 a group of Friends met at the Library to “Envision the Future.” One of the steps toward our goal of having a new library for our community was the establishment of a District Library. 2010 was the year to accomplish this goal. 2010 was a year of transformation and renewal. Today we will officially become the Friends of the Belleville Area District Library. Thanks to the vision and efforts of our community leaders and our dedicated library staff.
“During 2010 the Friends sponsored the very successful annual events: the perennial plant swap, the children and adult summer reading programs, and the Harvest Fest. We also continued our co-sponsorship of the Annual Garden Walk, and the Cultural Encounters Lecture Series. We participated in the Sumpter Fest and Strawberry Festival Parades. Last but not least, our quarterly book sales were the best ever.
“Today we look back at the pioneers of this group. The original members of the Friends of the library started this group in 1984. Marilyn Montgomery, Van Buren Township Trustee, called for the first meeting. Pat Klemons was the Library Director at that time. We want to thank all the charter members for their inspiration.”
Officers for 2011 were elected: Tony D’Onofrio, president; Nakenya Yarbrough, vice-president; Jane Stalmack, secretary; and Wanda Ritchey, treasurer.
Director Deb Green, gave the annual report for the library, honoring the first members of the friends and recognizing those in attendance that have contributed to the success of the friends over the years.
Mary Jane Dawson, president of the District Library Board, thanked the three communities for approving the District Library and all the voters who passed the millage. She asked the friends to participate in the upcoming public forums to gather information on building a new library.
President Chedraue announced the award winners for 2010: