July 15

Friends of the Public Library

Ricki is a volunteer at the “Friends of the Public Library” store. She counts and adds up the cost of books purchased at the facility located on University Blvd.

The last time I went to the store she checked me out. Today, she recognized me with a “You’re back” attitude and helped me again today.

Thousands and thousands of book are stored there.  Some are donated from private owners and others are weeded out of the Public Library System.  If you’ve never been to a “Friends of the Public Library” sale, it’s a must.  Throughout the year, there are book sales at different and various libraries and then there is this great place where hours are set on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

This is a must-go place. If you’re a member which costs $20 a year, you get BOGO on all store items all year long.  It’s definitely worth it!  Then there are the book sales where you can get full bags for low prices and if you’re a member, a BOGO.  Go to their website at FJPL . Org or drop by 3435 University Blvd. Jacksonville, Florida and get you some deals! If you go, say hi to my new friend “Ricki”.  

See you tomorrow,

Nan

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August 19

Vaughan’s Little Library

My cousin, David Paul is a licensed contractor and when asked about building a “Tiny Library” box did not hesitate.  He built it with left over items he had in his wood and metal piles.  After he was finished, I was able to pick it up while visiting our family reunion in Hampton, South Carolina.  It has been on the corner of our Jacksonville Crystal Springs property since about 1997.It was built with fine wood and a metal roof. What a beauty. (Thanks, cousin!).

Since it was placed there using a braced 4 x 4, it has served the community well.  When full, the library contains about 50 volumes depending on the size of the books.  It has stayed full and has on occasion had a paper box placed under it with additional books.  We discourage that due to rain and weather concerns.

The digital world has hit us all full force and now-a-days many readers have reading devices and apps on their phones and computers to read books.  The hand held books seem to becoming a thing of the past.  This makes me so sad.

My Father and Mother were lovers of books.  They built a brick room off of the back of the house dedicated to just books.  We call it our library even today. It probably has 2,500 volumes in  that small home.

The “Little Library outside was completely empty when I rode past yesterday.  For sure, those using it are not following the rule:  “Take One. Leave One”. I’m still grappling on what to do with this situation. I’d like to put a sign on the glass that reads:  “ Karen took five books. She did not leave any in return.  Do not be like Karen”. ” Take One. Give One.”Your thoughts? 8-19-22

See you tomorrow,