Ink Drinkers, Part Two
If you read Ink Drinkers - Part One you learned about an altruistic group of individuals called Romemakers. If you haven’t read it yet, maybe check it out before you read this any further.
OK, so you didn’t take that advice and you’re still here. That’s OK, read on and enjoy.
Back in 1984, a dedicated group of volunteers, calling themselves Romemakers, worked hard to bring the Town of Rome its very own library - The Lester Public Library of Rome. Over the past four decades, the library has stood as a beacon of knowledge, inclusivity and growth. And as it did back then, and still does today, the Rome Library offers individuals of all ages, interests, and backgrounds a place to learn, explore, and connect.
Like many small town libraries, the Rome Library is a cornerstone of the community, weaving itself into the very fabric of local life. Within its walls, a treasure trove of resources—from books and digital media to educational programs and community events. The library is not merely a repository of books, but a dynamic space where curiosity is nurtured, literacy is championed, and lifelong learning is made accessible to all.
But here’s the deal. The Rome Library would not be the wonderful resource we all enjoy today if not for the ongoing efforts of another dedicated group of individuals calling themselves Friends of the Library.
Friends was formed in 2006 when a dozen or so Ink Drinkers (you should have read Part One first) got together over a cup of coffee (no, not ink) and started throwing out ideas of how they could expand the library’s reach. How they could advocate for continued growth and development of the facilities. And how they could build awareness so that everyone would benefit from everything the library offered.
Today the group has grown to forty-five. Together they have ensured that the library avoids stagnation and continues to be a place of wonder and information. In fact, Friends is responsible for the library expansion that was completed in 2017, including the well-utilized Community Room.
Through fund-raising initiatives of all kinds (e.g. Bingo, Library Fun Walks, and a Not-Your-Average Triathlon), they provided support for the upgrade to the children’s area. They added the patio that overlooks the serenity of nature in the back of the library. They improved on nature with tasteful landscaping and paths furnished with benches for even more quiet outdoor reading and reflection opportunities.
So, if you’re an Ink Drinker (a.k.a. bookworm), or simply someone who cares about the town you live in, and would like to find out more, or maybe even volunteer, visit https://www.romepubliclibrary.org/friends-lester-public-library-rome or email Jeanne Osgood at jmoz514@gmail.com.
Written by: Lydell Capritta
