Among Friends

People who love libraries often speak passionately about the myriad ways in which libraries enrich our lives. We were fortunate to have such an inspiring experience on January 22 nd , when Friends of the Library, the Providence Athenaeum and the John Russell Bartlett Society held our very first joint event. Despite the blustery January weather, over 100 members of our three organizations gathered in Brown's List Auditorium for a lively talk by Jonathan Bengtson, executive director of the Athenaeum, who spoke about his decade in the libraries of Oxford University.

As our members excitedly discussed the lecture at the reception that followed, I was struck by how much each of our organizations relies on the generosity of its members to be able to offer these terrific programs. In that regard, I want to express my sincere appreciation to all of you who have renewed your membership, sent memorial gifts, or made additional donations to the Brown University Library. Your contributions to Brown's Friends of the Library also support Library publications, the purchase of new scholarly materials and the high level of service provided by our staff. Without your continued support, the Friends of the Library could not continue.

But, continue it will! We have a great calendar of programs lined up for spring, and hope you will join us for at least some of them. Since our collaboration in January went so well, we will be planning future joint events with other community organizations. Mark your calendars for May 16 th , when the Athenaeum will host the fifth annual Philbrick Poetry Award. The Athenaeum has graciously agreed to invite Friends of the Library members to what should prove to be a very engaging program. The Award will be presented to a New England poet who has not yet published a book. The Award is sponsored by the Providence Athenaeum's Philbrick Poetry Fund, named in honor of the late Charles and Deborah Philbrick, who were lifelong members and supporters of the Athenaeum. Charles Philbrick was Professor of English at Brown for over 20 years and the Philbricks were donors to the Brown University Library.

It is the spirit of people like Charles and Deborah Philbrick and all of our friends that keeps the Brown University Library strong. Please help us continue to grow and prosper by using the coupon on the last page to renew your membership -- or to give the gift of membership to someone you know who loves libraries. We remain indebted to your continued generosity.

Sincerely,
Fraser A. Lang
Chair