Ferguson Library recently hosted a chess workshop for children. The library will offer the free program again this Saturday, Jan. 8, to teach the basics of the game to children in grades 2 to 5.
Such programs wouldnt be possible without the help of supporters, who have responded to the librarys annual appeal with a collective donation of $97,000 to date, noted library President Ernie DiMattia. Some 1,100 givers have aided Ferguson with donations big and small as the library continues its efforts to address a $1.2 million city funding cut.
It clearly is a record for contributions to the library, said DiMattia, adding that the entrepreneurial role patrons are playing to help sustain the library and its offerings is very gratifying.
Of special note was a donation totaling $1,200 from Stamford High School teachers, who took up a collection among themselves.
We know the library provides useful services for students, said a math teacher who spearheaded the collection. He said teachers regularly steer students to free tutoring services on the librarys web site. We wanted to do what we could to help the library.
The teacher, Mr. Sartor, shuns publicity for himself regarding the donation. However, he points to his late grandmother, Marie OConnell, who used to live on Newfield Avenue, as someone who helped instill in him the importance of community libraries.
Corporate donors also have helped, keeping the library open Sundays and supporting programs. They include GE Asset Management, Pitney Bowes and Silver Golub & Teitell law office.
In addition to escalated fund-raising, efforts introduced last year to address the budget shortfall included staff salary decreases, an increase in health insurance premiums and reduced hours at the main library and all branches.
A major fund-raising event is being planned for this spring.
Have you or your child taken advantage of a free library program lately? What was it?
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