Public libraries strengthen our communities by providing unique opportunities for children and adults alike to learn, network, connect with one another and access resources that may not be available to them otherwise. According to a
2015 Pew Research Center survey, almost two-thirds of adult Americans say that closing their local library would have a major impact on their community. The same study found that over 90 percent of adults think of public libraries as ‘welcoming and friendly places.’ In many communities, librarians are also ad hoc social workers and navigators who help local people figure out the complexities of life, from navigating the health system to helping those with housing needs. This ‘go-to’ role has influenced library programming and events, with libraries providing advice and connections to health, housing, literacy, and other areas.
In 2018, our teams organized fundraisers and volunteer outings and collected donations in support of 23 local public libraries. Fundraisers were primarily done during designated event weeks during the last week of each quarter. On June 25, we held our largest fundraising event of the year, our 3rd annual C&N Charity Classic golf tournament, which raised over $15,000. We finished the year with over $65,417 in monetary donations, 3,339 items donated and volunteered on 35 occasions.