To the Editor:

The numbers are in and with the support of the community, the Friends of Tiverton Libraries raised over $3,000 primarily toward support of the summer reading program for children, teens and adults.

Children's reading, amounting to 8,200 books, showed an increase of over 3,000 books read over last year's rate, with 486 children completing six or more books each. Six events drew over 600-plus participants, thanks again to the Knights of Columbus who donated their Hall on Fish Road and to the volunteers who assisted 116 Tiverton teens read over 2,040 hours and participated in some of the 43 workshops and events, including Animation: the Art and Science of Visual Perception, provided by Rhode Island Museum of Science and Art, as well as writing workshops by two working authors, robotics and Native Narragansett storytelling.

There were 183 adults who read or heard 468 books, print and electronic. E-books can be downloaded from the library at no cost. Thanks to all supporters of these programs!

The 2011 Community Festival and Library Benefit was the largest event yet coordinated by the Friends of Tiverton Libraries. Thanks to returning partners: Tiverton Lions Club [cookout], Tiverton Garden Club [plant sale], Tiverton Public Schools [space] and Coastal Roasters [coffee]!

Thanks to new partners: Sakonnet Arts Network [children's activities], Southcoast Artists [children's activities] and Tiverton Education Foundation [Touch-a-Truck]!

Barbara Pelletier donated a banner valued at $250 to celebrate 10 years of the Friends and a new location for the festival at Tiverton High School.

The Friends coordinated their first early bird booksale preview for new or current members and the largest booksale to date, with support from the libraries, Town Hall, High School and senior center.

And the popular bake sale with donations by bakers from all over town! Thanks to over 70 volunteers, and students who received community service hours. Local restaurants donated certificates for a popular "Cook's Night Out" raffle.

It was a win-win event for participants, attendees and Tiverton's Libraries, providing service for nearly 200 years!

Kathy Ryan
President
Friends of Tiverton Libraries