Library Is Achieving Mission To Expand Minds

The Bristol Public Library hosted author Nicholas Sparks on Saturday, June 13, as part of the 2009 Discovery Series. The event was a huge success and aided in raising awareness, as well as much needed funds for the library and its programs.

The event would not have been possible without the generosity of so many people in the community. Sponsors such as The United Co., Bristol Herald Courier, WCYB and Citadel Broadcasting helped make marketing the event possible. The staff at the beautiful Paramount Center for the Arts provided the location for our speaker, catering from C.J. & Company delighted us with a tasty lunch and Mickey Lovett allowed the use of his charming building at 606 State Street for the luncheon. Ben Walls graciously shared his photography work to display during the event.

Our Friends of the Library Group provided ticket takers, greeters and book sellers. Of course, we cannot forget the hard working library staff that fielded many phone calls and distributed tickets in addition to their normal duties. All of these folks and many more assisted in making Bristol shine for locals and out-of-state visitors on that day. Many have e-mailed that they plan to return to Bristol for another visit.

The spirit of community was overwhelming and the love for the library was evident.  Thanks to everyone involved who helped raise funds and awareness for programs such as the Literacy Academy, our children and teen programs and other events.

Thank you for helping us in achieving our mission of expanding minds and building community.

Anita Foster-Machado
Bristol, Tenn.

Foster-Machado is executive director of the Bristol Public Library Foundation.