Odell Public Library Friends member Anne Frame wrote the article and submitted the photos.
If you are not aware, Odell Public Library Friends’ group has instigated an enormous fundraising effort, “Fund Our Floor.” The goal is to purchase a new floor of carpet tiles and vinyl, to replace and update the 26-year-old carpeting. The Friends and this campaign need your help.
Who are the Odell Public Library Friends, and what do they do? Friends were founded on November 5, 2008, with the main purpose of raising money for the library. Libraries need Friends! Look behind the curtains, and inevitably Friends will be found working to make sure their library is strong. Odell Public Library is built upon the contributions, donations, and gifts of people who believe public libraries touch our lives profoundly and meaningfully.
Did you know a group of Morrison citizens (friends) discussed the formation of a library in 1877? They were presented with a $1000 to buy books by J. Danforth Odell. After buying the Congregational Church at the northeast corner of Cherry Street and Lincolnway Road, he remarkably gifted it to be utilized as a library.
Throughout the years, many benefactors have friended Odell Public Library. These good friends have believed in the importance of knowledge and that a community library is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Two former Librarians state why a library is important to them.
Janice Horberg, top, former Morrison High School Librarian, says, “I have always loved books. My parents were readers[. They, always encouraging my love of books and my frequent visits to the library. It’s no surprise I received a Masters degree in Library Science and enjoyed working with High School students for 34 years. I began volunteering at Odell and saw patrons enjoying a variety of services and activities, which is greatly rewarding. Libraries are my ‘happy place,’ and I am grateful for all Odell has to offer.”
Barbara Peterson, who was a Librarian in the Port Byron schools, states, “Odell has saved me so much time and money through the years. It is so easy to request any book online, and it’s interesting to see which libraries supply the request and offbeat titles.”
Join Odell Public Library Friends in this large undertaking, as they help to freshen our library to make it more functional and serviceable for the upcoming years. Your donation may be mailed to Odell Public Library, 307 S. Madison Street, Morrison, IL 61270 or given personally.
The Friends also have a GoFundMe page at this internet address: gofundme.com/f/fund-our-floor. Be a friend to your library. All contributions will be most appreciated.
Thank you!