The Friends of the Troy Public Library are a hard working and dedicated bunch.

They realize the importance of books and want to encourage reading among all age groups.

The Friends know that books are the door to the world and the avenue to learning, entertainment and untold pleasure.

That’s why they are Friends.

Juanita Rogers, TPL Friends chair, said the April membership drive was very successful and brought in new members of all ages and from all walks of life.

“During our spring membership drive, we solicited members from businesses and organizations,” Rogers said. “The response was good and we appreciate their interest and support. We are an active group and we always need more Friends.”

Rogers said the Friends of the Library work year around in support of the library and its many programs.

“We just purchased three cabinets for the microfilm in the genealogical department,” she said. “That was a need that we saw and that’s what we do. We provide support for things that are needed but are not in the library’s budget. We purchase the Oxmoor cookbooks, which are very popular. We also purchased the tutoring station that is used in the tutoring program the library offers. College students volunteer as tutors and that program is an outstanding one.”

The Friends also operate the Book Nook, which is just that – a small, book-filled room on the library’s first floor.

“Many of the books are donated and others are books that are weeded out of library circulation,” Rogers said.

William White, library director, said the library will often have several copies of a book that is in great demand.

“When the demand lessens, we will take, say copy three, out of circulation and make it available for purchase in the Book Nook,” he said. “The Book Nook offers many titles at very affordable prices.”

The prices in the Book Nook vary but paperbacks often carry a 25-cent price tag and hardbacks might be 75 cents.

Rogers said a lady recently came into the Book Nook and found a book for 75 cents that she had just bought for $13 off a store shelf.

“We have good buys and we have people who shop regularly at the Book Nook,” Rogers said. “Some people will buy a book, read it and donate it back.”

The Book Nook is the big money maker for Friends of the Library. Last year, the little bookstore made about $10,000.

“With that money, we are able to meet several needs of the library,” Rogers said. “Of course, our membership dues help, too.”

Annual individual memberships are $15; family memberships are $25 and silver and gold memberships are available for $50 and $100. Children’s memberships are $3.

Businesses memberships are available in silver, gold and platinum, for $100, $150 and $200.

“The Friends of the Library provide a valuable service to the Troy Public Library,” White said. “Without the assistance of Friends, we would not be able to some of the things we do. We appreciate all they do for the library and for our community.”

For more information about Friends of the Library or to become a Friend, visit the Troy Public Library or call 556-1314.