Saturday, May 30, 2009

Our "Patrons"

Here at the Pacific Grove Public Library, the staff refers to the people who use the Library as our "patrons." It's an old-fashioned word. Many libraries have replaced it with customer, member, visitor or some other synonym. But "patron" still works best for PGPL.

Why? Because it captures the spirit of support that exists between the Library and its visitors. The Library supports the community - with its collection of books, magazines, music, and DVDs; storytime programs; lectures; assistance in finding information; public access computers; a quiet place to study.

And the community supports the Library. Many of our visitors offer something in return. Some make donations - of money, gently used books, services-in-kind. Others volunteer; they come in every week and do whatever is needed. Several speak up at City Council meetings. A few present programs. A handful mastermind terrific fundraising events. Students from our local schools do community service at the Library.

That's what patrons do. They "support with money, efforts, or endorsements." They "sponsor social functions." They "use their wealth or influence to help an institution or a cause."

This reciprocal relationship of support benefits everyone. It builds and sustains community. It enhances the quality of our lives. It offers us all the opportunity to give back or "pay it forward." It helps make a city - a home town.

For 101 years, PGPL had been serving its "patrons." Let's keep it going for another century or two.....

No comments: