Thirty-five years ago, in May of 1987, the Rio Vista Friends of the Library was formed. When
the county informed the libraries that there was not funding for any of the summer programs,
concerned citizens came forward creating “Friends of the Library” groups to cover the financial
shortage. Rio Vista was no different.
Chairman Betty Settle, Treasurer Nancy Judge and Secretary Karen Spengler stepped up under
the auspices of the Head Librarian to form the Rio Vista Friends of the Library to help our
Library in any way possible. The daughter of that librarian now works for our library, and while
Betty Settle and Nancy Judge are not longer with us, Karen Spengler continues to help, (she was
very young 35 years ago).
For those who don’t know, the Friends are a vital resource for the library helping to finance
some of our children’s favorite programs. They have the Baby Book program, where each new
baby is given a book on their very first visit to the library. They fund the pre-school story time,
and the games, arts and crafts and entertainment for the elementary and high school students.
All the wonderful crafts that are displayed at the library are the work done by the program
attendees, under the leadership of Librarian David Marsh, but the Friends fund the programs,
up to and including the pizza oven. During the summer, the programs will be in the city park
and no doubt the smoothie machine will come in handy.
The Friends of the Library raise money by membership donations, book sales, raffles and
applying for local and state grants. Any money donated to the Rio Vista Friends of the Library is
tax deductible. Should you wish to learn more about the Rio Vista Friends of the Library and
become a member or how to participate in the upcoming summer programs, come to the
library. It is truly a magical kingdom, closer to home and much easier on the wallet.