By Stephen Smoot
Bibliophiles and supporters of the Pendleton County Library gathered to discuss fall plans last week, always with the mandate to “support the concept of books and the written word.”
With no July meeting scheduled due to members vacationing, discussions had to focus on both the short- and near-term plans of the group.
The Friends of the Library decided to reschedule their meeting for August. They set the time for the business meeting at 3:30 instead of 4 p.m. That meeting will focus on plans for the Friends’ book sale during Treasure Mountain Festival.
Board member Mike Rechlin asked, “Does the library do anything for authors?” He then proposed that the group organize an authors’ event to hold alongside the book sale. “I know that they do that at the Highland County Maple Festival,” he added.
Board members also discussed how to use that concept to benefit the Friends of the Library. Authors could sell and autograph books at the event, setting aside $1.00 per purchase for the Friends. “It’s a way to support the library and books,” said Rhonda Nash. She added that although Franklin does not have a dedicated bookstore, “it’s nice that the library sells books.”
The group asked that any local author who is interested call Madeline Hoover at 304-358-7489.
Next, discussion turned to the annual History Alive program that in recent years has featured actors and actresses portraying individuals such as Charles Schulz of “Peanuts” fame and the investigative journalist Nellie Bly.
Board members explained that the group alternates between male and female each year. This year is slated for a female representation and the board agreed to select a woman of color to fill the role. Options include Harriet Tubman, who led slaves to freedom, and Sacagawea, the American Indian guide and companion of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they explored the continent.
They then agreed to check into the availability of those and other performers, with the final decision to come later. Moreover, they chose to plan the event for a Sunday, rather than Saturday. Finally, they selected a time frame between the middle of October and the second week of November in which to ultimately plan the event.
