CULLMAN, Ala. – The inaugural Friends of the Public Libraries of Cullman County (FPLCC) Book-It Virtual 5K Run/Walk will take place Sept. 25-30, 2020 to support the Cullman County Public Library System (CCPLS).
FPLCC Secretary Renee Welsh and CCPLS Director Sharon Townson talked with The Tribune about the event and what’s happening at the library.
“The Friends of the Public Libraries of Cullman County are sponsoring their Inaugural Book It 5K, and it is virtual!” smiled Welsh. “A virtual race is a race without the big crowds, the long lines, and the pressure of running with other participants, where you can run, jog, walk, or stroll on a road on a treadmill, in a park, at a gym or on a track and a race where you run/walk at your own pace within the dates provided. Run/walk solo on your own terms. It’s a pandemic safe-to-do activity (social distancing approved), keeps you fit and strong and benefits a great cause.”
How does the 5K support the CCPLS?
Welsh answered, “All proceeds from the Virtual Book-It Run/Walk will support the ongoing needs of the Cullman County Public Library System – from infrastructure improvements and furniture to electronic media and printed materials.”
Townson added, “Friends of the Public Libraries of Cullman County have offered many programs, events and fundraisers this past year. The 5K is another way to raise funds for the library as well as bring awareness to the libraries across Cullman County.”
“And please – snap a selfie at the finish line – or with family and friends during the run/walk!” said Welsh. “We have included a 1-Mile Fun Run for those who have little ones. Everyone can participate!”
How does it work?
Register for Book-It 5K and you can run or walk the 5K – but you decide when (between Sept. 25-30) and where. Simply upload your results to the registration site. You can use any of the numerous running apps and fitness devices that can help with distance and timing.
Register at https://raceroster.com/events/2020/33358/1st-annual-book-it-virtual-5k.
Registration is $25 for the 5K and $15 for the 1-Mile Fun Run.
FPLCC support
“Our mission is to support library services and programs for all branches of the Cullman County Public Libraries by fundraising and encouraging community awareness,” said Welsh. “We are committed to investing not only in our libraries, but also in our patrons. It might sound strange to think of libraries as an investment, but studies show that libraries are crucial economic engines. The Cullman County libraries are an economic and social lifeline for ALL Cullman residents. Libraries expose children to reading, they provide non-reading resources for all ages. Libraries strengthen community ties and most importantly, library cards are free. Libraries offer so many resources to everyone. They can be truly life-changing for people who otherwise would not have access to educational and recreational activities.”
Townson offered the CCPLS’ perspective on how the Friends fit in saying, “One of the main purposes of a Friends group is to raise awareness of libraries. Fundraisers such as the 5K are a great way to reach out to specific community members that enjoy a healthy lifestyle, enjoy running or walking and/or simply want to support area libraries. Grant writing is key in improving library services in our area. There are grants available only to nonprofit groups that meet the IRS 501(c)(3) requirements. This Friends group is able to apply for those grants where the library itself would not qualify. We have received several grants this year that improved summer programs and helped grow our collection, both print and electronic. There was also a grant to provide a new program for young readers; the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten recently started to encourage early literacy to preschoolers across our county.”
What is the importance of a revitalized public library system?
Welsh: “Now, more than ever, The Friends recognize our libraries are a vital force for the Cullman County community. During these challenging times, all of our branches have been a safe, accessible and free educational resource center. We recently celebrated the great work by the Alabama Supercomputer Authority, the installation of high-speed broadband network enhancement for all of the branches. Think about the power-up in that action – a resident can visit one of the libraries and gain internet access to manage their educational or financial or career-finding needs. And for me, as a retired aerospace engineer – libraries preserve the history of this great nation – of the world. Libraries house centuries of learning and history and truth. The Friends are committed to providing access for all patrons to the past, the present and the future worlds of learning. Our mantra: ‘A library is not a luxury – but a necessity of life.’”
Townson: “Public Libraries, like all buildings, need constant attention to keep them in good repair. The municipalities of Hanceville, Garden City, Colony and Holly Pond make sure their public libraries are able to offer materials and services to meet local needs. Updates including shelving, flooring and painting are important to offer a welcoming environment for citizens and to those just passing through these towns. Our community deserves a great space to enjoy discovering new information, technology and recreation. The system’s focus moving forward is meeting spaces, technology, programs, services and events to improve the lives of all library users and the community in general.”
For community, The Tribune asked readers on its Facebook page to sound off and share what the CCPLS means to them. Below are some of those responses.
Andrea Bishop: “Public Libraries are far more important than we give them credit. Not everyone has access to sources that your library provides. Librarians are unsung heroes. Libraries are a quiet place where you have the knowledge of the entire world right there in one building without the rest of the world’s noise to distract you. Support your local library!”
Kerri Roberts: “I love the library! Had a hankering to watch McFarland so went and checked it out during COVID. It’s not available on Disney plus. I also checked out some books. Such an asset to our community.”
Jan Brandenburg: “I love, love, love our library. I am an avid reader and have been reading even more during this pandemic. I could never afford to buy as many books as I read. Our library always has such a good selection to choose from; the staff is helpful and super friendly and, of course, there is that library smell that we know and love.”
Stacy Wright: “I love our library in Cullman city! The ladies are so nice and helpful!! They have always been super nice to my daughter too. We visit every summer. I missed taking her this summer due to COVID.”
Andee Meyer: “I love the library! Nothing compares to holding an actual book in your hands and getting lost in it! As a stay at home mom of twins, reading while my toddlers sleep is my form of self-care. And they love for me to read to them as well”
There were some comments about ways in which community members believe the library should be improved, both cosmetically and by increasing its stock of available books. All feedback has been shared with the library. (http://bit.ly/CCPLSFeedback)
Find out more at www.facebook.com/cullmancountypubliclibrarysystem and www.facebook.com/fotplocc.
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