Each year I try to figure out a way to give back during the holiday season.  I often find myself being thankful for all that I have, and then realize there are a great number of individuals who are not as fortunate as I am. Giving back during the holiday season can be easy, there are numerous organizations who are always in need of help during this time of year.  The Friends of the Library is just one of those organizations, so if you are looking for a way to give back this holiday season, here are a couple of ways you can help out an organization whose mission is to encourage literacy, expression, and discovery in the Chippewa Valley through support to the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library and the surrounding community.

1. Support the 28^th Annual Friends of the Library Give a Kid a Book campaign.  Now through December 17^th the Friends are collecting new books for kids ages birth – 18 years old.  Book donations can be dropped off at:
   • The Brewing Projekt, 1807 N Oxford Ave Eau Claire (now  – 11/26),
   • The Friends of the Library Bookstore (Level 0 of the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, now – December 17)
   • Find the Seasonal Bear display in the library (November 28 – December 17).
   • Monetary donations can be sent directly to the Friends of the Library (attn: GAKAB 400 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire WI 54701) or online.

2. Join the Friends of the Library. The Friends of the Library is a small non-profit organization that supports the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library each year with donations of both volunteer hours and financial support.  It is easy to join; contact the Friends (715.831.5301 or friendsofthelibrary@eauclaire.lib.wi.us) for more information or visit our website.

3. Volunteer for the Friends of the Library. The Friends of the Library always need more volunteers.  We recently opened our Bookstore in the newly renovated library and are looking for volunteers to help staff it during library hours.  We also have plenty of shelves in the library that need to be adopted.  Visit our website for more information about these volunteer opportunities.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than giving back and making a difference in the lives of people in this great community.”  -Frank Guzzetta