JANUARY 26, 2005 From time to time, library newcomers object to paying the membership fees we charge, which is generally $2.00 per year for an individual, or $5.00 per year for a family. More than one person has stated that we are not serving the public if we charge a membership fee, and then they may tell us that Library X doesn't charge anything because they are a public library.

The Gravette library is a Public Library, but unfortunately, it is different from almost all other public libraries in the State of Arkansas, because it is not supported by a dedicated tax (usually, a portion of the property tax for the School District). We are funded by the City of Gravette, from their revenues, to the extent that the City is financially able. If we were to receive a specified portion of the property taxes paid in the Gravette School District, then it is possible our income would be sufficient to cover our needs without charging membership fees to resident patrons.

Your comments on this subject will be most welcome. You may visit us at the library, or telephone 787-6955 to talk with Vivian or Dawn, or use the Internet to give feedback from our website, gravettelibrary.com, or send email to gravettepubliclibrary@yahoo.com.

You may recall that an anonymous donor gave the Library Foundation a gift of $5,000.00 recently. The donor gave instructions that the entire amount was to be used to purchase materials.

I am happy to report that several hundred new books, videos, and audios (including DVDs and CDs) have been ordered, and approximately 100 materials have been received. These include some of the latest best sellers, reference books, movies and cassette tapes.

A sampling includes:

We also have "How-to" books on craft projects, a set of 24 Barbie books, children's books, and for the "do-it-yourself auto mechanic," approximately 15 new Chilton's automotive repair books.

Much more will be coming in over the next few weeks, so stay in touch with us.

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