The Colts Neck Library is celebrating its 25 years of providing an outstanding supply of books and other educational and recreational activities at a festive party set for Sunday, March 2 at the library from 2 to 4 p.m.
The public is invited to attend , tour the facility and view the Wall of Recognition opposite the elevator upstairs and learn more about why the library, which is part of the Monmouth County Library system, plays such a vital role in the township.
With numerous programs run by the Colts Neck Friends of the Library, families through the years have praised their volunteerism and creativity, working with the Monmouth County Library Commission to keep all ages well equipped at the facility.
Many Township mayors through the years participated in reading to the younger library visitors in celebration of Read Across America Day, a day set aside specially to encourage reading to children.
The Friends have sponsored programs with musicians, animal visits by Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, Art Shows including Mil Wexler Kobrinski’s Empty Bowls program benefiting JB Soul Kitchen as well as Book Sales .
Book Sales has been a vital source in the growth and continued excellence of the library Initially run by Joan Yates and now run by Bonnie Lee and Dr Amy Eschinger. Other programs include student volunteers completing Community Service hours for National Honor Society, spelling bee for third graders in Colts Neck, and even pony rides.
Volunteers have raised the funds and replaced carpeting in the Library Main Room and Children’ Room thanks to many parent and student volunteers who moved books and shelves off lowest level of cabinets; volunteers from the Fire Department, Police and the Children’s Garden all presented programs at the library.
With many visions from the past, the latest chaired by Dr Eschinger has had the most success, members agree. Under Dr. Eschinger a cement area with chairs for the children’s librarian to read to the children outside when the weather permits has been added.
Lin Fong O’Neil graciously donates the proceeds to the Friends when she paints someone’s house in oils, here own way of showing how appreciative she is of the local library and all it offers.
