Libraries Can Also Benefit from Giving

Andrew Carnegie, steel industrialist and philanthropist, believed it was his and every rich person's duty to give back some of their wealth for public use. However, he wasn't willing to throw his money to anything. Carnegie wanted it used wisely and productively for the good of society. A good portion of his contributions went towards building public libraries across our nation, fore he knew library users were out for self- improvement and most likely, their betterment would benefit others.

We have been helped throughout time by the likes of Carnegie and today, John Q. Hammons. Although the rest of us may not be blessed with similar salaries, I like to think most of us still yearn to share as well. We might have the philanthropic mindset, despite the lack of wealth, and we would like to make a difference somewhere outside our regular routine.

To meet this desire, many of you wonderful people have given food, clothing, blood, cash, and other items to various relief organizations and charities. These are needs you've helped meet and I salute you and encourage you to keep it up. Your actions have helped individuals gain more security and comfort.

But here's another idea for giving. Have you ever considered donating new or fairly new books to your local school library? Now doesn't that have a little Carnegie ring to it? Sure it's not a whole library, but it becomes part of one and numerous people can benefit from your contribution. Each person who checks the book out could be touched by it. The giving of books could greatly influence the community and help a school struggling to stock the library shelves with the new and more expensive books of today.

Some advice, should you pursue this project, includes possibly checking with the librarian to see if there's a wish list or book requirements. Plus your contribution is more likely to be read if it's newer and attractive. If certain donations are declined, don't take it personally. Certain state regulations may frown on the library having it. Keep trying as I'm sure most books will be accepted and appreciated. Also, decide if you would like your name on your contribution or if you want to be anonymous. You could also give a book in memory or in honor of someone or something. Remember the difference you can make.