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When Wendell Street resident Meg Mehn was looking for ways to give back to the community, she decided to join The Friends of Winchester Library. When asked why, Mehm says, “I used to take my kids to the library every week — it was an important place for them.”
They found the library very welcoming.
“We mail the newsletter to every household twice a year,” she says.
The Friends raises funds to buy books for the library and this year the goal is $60,000.
“We also use the money to pay for things that our taxes don’t support,” she adds, “such as children’s and teens’ programs.”
These include “yarnies” and science programs for the children.
“The library hires the speakers based on a budget that Friends give them,” Mehm says.
How did she get to be president of the 19-board member group?
“I didn’t put my hand down fast enough,” she jokes. “People in town are very generous. We’re hoping to get new members and we get grants from EN KA, the Winchester Cooperative Bank and the John and Mary Murphy Foundation.”
The Friends bought the 3D printer and the supplies which brings in money which we turn over to the library staff.
“At our recent open house, we had a bake sale, sold note cards, mugs and T-shirts. And we had a silent auction of baskets and local artists’ work,” Mehm says.
They also sponsor a board games night on Fridays and provide snacks, she adds.
