I fully (and shamefully) admit that I’m the worst at thank yous. I appreciate all kinds of lovely things that people say or do to help make the world a better place. Yet, it’s far too infrequent that I pen a note to express my gratitude. I have spent lots of time self-flagellating for this lapse in my etiquette. And still, I don’t always succeed in letting those know just how much their support and kindness means to me.
But I am thankful. I am thankful that I get to work in the best place in town. In three+ years working at the library, I’ve never once woken up not wanting to go to work. I mean, who wouldn’t love working in a beautiful space like Meinders Community Library each and every day? The facility is gorgeous. My co-workers are the bomb, and the patrons we help are all kinds of amazing on many different levels.
However, none of this would be possible without the support from all of our benefactors including Herman and LaDonna Meinders. In 2003, the Meinders family donated $1,000,000 to build the library onto the new school. In 2015, they donated another $50,000 to replace the carpet and buy new computer chairs.
With National Library Week fast approaching, the time is right to let them know just how much their generosity has impacted our community. Over the next few weeks, please consider the ways you have used Meinders Community Library.
If you have ever attended a library event, checked out a book or a cake pan, used the STEAM Room, printed copies, attended story time, read an e-book, listened to one of our audiobooks, have children or grandchildren who visit the library, or simply enjoy hanging out in our comfy chairs, you can show your appreciation to the Meinders family.
The Pipestone Area Friends of the Library has provided a basket full of greeting cards for your convenience. These cards can be found at the front desk. At the culmination of National Library Week (April 7-13), PAFL will collect and mail the signed thank yous to Herman and LaDonna to be shared with their family.
Small things like this go a long way, and PAFL does so many small (and big) things for our library and our patrons–often behind the scenes. Their yummy refreshments at events are the tastiest example of their generosity. Donating books and funds for programs is the most important. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer nearly as much.
And last, but not least: you.
We appreciate all the support we receive from our patrons and thank you each and every time you walk through our doors. By using our library, you acknowledge the value of our collection, our programming, and our space.
Your time in our library is paramount to our success. You are the reason I am happy to come to work. So, thanks for hanging in there with us!
Beyond appreciative~ jody
