People turn to the library for access to information, technology, programs, exhibits, lectures, and much more; and in times like these, more than ever, they turn to us.

As the economy gets worse, business is better than ever at CRRL—up 10 percent over last year. It's clear that people are spending less, reading more. More people are discovering libraries. People are borrowing books, thumbing through the library's magazines, using computers, attending library programs, movies, and exhibits.

Savvy library users are saving gas, too, placing holds online and only heading to the library when they've been notified that the items are ready for pickup. Requests for reserves are up so much this year–13.5 percent–that we're had to add shelves to hold the reserves.

So, if hard times are bringing more people through the doors of our libraries, that's a good thing! Let them read books! Books help us rise up to who we can be. Books convey meaning, help us understand the world. Books offer shared experience, books are connectors. Books are transformational and escapist in the best sense of the word. Long ago, Emily Dickinson sweetly put her finger on what librarians profess:

There is no Frigate like a Book
To take us Lands away,
Nor any Coursers like a Page
Of prancing Poetry.

It's well and good that libraries are no longer just book repositories; we are, indeed, providers of access to information and technology and a community destination for cultural programming. But promoting awareness and access to books is arguably the highest value libraries bring to our communities.

Friends can be effective advocates for their libraries. Please urge our local and state government representatives to find a way within the confines of very tight budgets to sustain support of their community libraries that serve all Virginians during difficult times.

Donna Cote, Director

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library was pleased to discover that we are rated #4 in the HAPLR Index or Hennen's American Public Library Rating Index. Thomas Hennen notes that the "HAPLR Index is similar to an ACT or SAT score with a theoretical minimum of 1 and a maximum of 1,000. Most libraries scored between 260 and 730, so scores above and below those numbers are remarkable." There are over 9000 public libraries in the U.S. CRRL is included in the category of libraries serving over 250,000 people and less than 500,000 people. Our score is 814. The rankings are based on statistics collected by the federal Institute of Museums and Library Services.

Take a look back over 2008 with the Friends:

Long-time Friend Publishes Memoir
In August 2008, Taking on the Burden of History: Presuming to Be a United States Marine was published by Xlibris Publishing. The book, written by Dr. George M. Van Sant, is a memoir of his time serving in the United States Marine Corp. Find out more in the newsletter!

Salem Church Branch Opens
The branch opened to rave reviews in February 2009. You can visit the newly expanded and renovated building and find the same wonderful service that you have always enjoyed—and much more. Visit today!

New Stafford Branch
Stafford Friends are looking forward to a stunning new library. Construction of a 30,000 square foot facility on Plantation Drive off Warrenton Road is expected to begin in Spring 2009 with an anticipated opening in Summer 2010. England Run Branch will combine the traditional elements of library service—large book collections and reference services—with the new trends in public libraries, emphasizing customer service, displays, new media formats, and comfortable browsing and seating areas. Read more about it in the newsletter!

Thanks, Friends
The support of the Friends of the Library makes the difference between a good library and a great library. Most of the wonderful public programs, unique events, furnishings, gardens, and special collections are made possible by the generosity of library supporters. A gift to the library is a gift to the entire community.

For more library and Friends news, read the newsletter here or join to receive your copy today!