Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.
-Margaret Mead

The Wells Branch Community Library is about to move into a gorgeous new building, and the Friends of the Library invite you to celebrate this achievement. There will be a Gala on October 16 featuring an international theme, and tickets are only $20.

What is so compelling about this library? Well, it’s the result of a grass-roots effort by dedicated reader-citizens, and their mission is to make information available to everyone and to promote reading. They serve everyone in the greater Austin-Round Rock area, regardless of whether a patron pays city taxes. (The Austin and Round Rock libraries charge annual fees for those outside the city limits.) However, as a growing community resource, many items are still needed: shelving for books, patron area furnishings, computers, software, office furniture, books, tapes, and CDs. They also have a serious need of volunteer help for the move and in the new building, since it will be 14,000 square feet larger than where they are currently (2,000 square feet).

You can become a Friend of the Library as individual for as little as $20, or as a family for $40; a junior membership is available for $12 to those through age 16.

We are also seeking business sponsors. Depending on the level of your contribution, you will receive various benefits to help promote your business. Besides, by investing in the community, you’re doing a good deed that will have an impact for years to come.

If you’re an Austinite, please consider giving your support to this endeavor. If you’re not an Austinite, you are welcome to join — or perhaps this has inspired you to support your local public library.

The will of the people is the only legitimate foundation of any government, and to protect its free expression should be our first object.
-Thomas Jefferson