The Friends of the Oakdale Library has announced the launch of its brand-new website, friendsoakdalelibrary.org.

“We encourage you to visit and bookmark the site so that you can stay on top of what the Friends are doing to enhance the library’s services and resources,” said Sharon Arpoika, President of the Oakdale Friends. “Our mission is to foster a love for reading and learning in the community. We support events, fundraisers, and educational programs to assist with the library’s growth and maintain this treasure.”

The Friends group provides funding for over 98 percent of the programs at the Oakdale Library, which include craft activities, outdoor play days, Wee Move & Play for toddlers, Little Scientists: STEAM activities for elementary age youngsters, Family Game Nights and more.

“Additionally, we help provide prize giveaways, and funds for additional materials and equipment for the library,” Arpoika added. “Over the years the Friends have held used book sales and relied on membership dues to raise funds to provide this extra support. Times have changed and we are changing too. Now our primary fundraising tool is our Annual Fund Drive.”

Those who treasure the library and want to help it survive and thrive are asked to make a single donation or an annual donation to this end, and with the new website now a reality, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can make this donation online through the Friends of the Library website.

“We are a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization. Please explore our online platform, learn how to get involved, stay connected with the latest news and events and donate,” said Arpoika. “Visit us today at friendsoakdalelibrary.org to make a difference.”

On a sadder note and for a number of reasons, Arpoika said, neither the Friends of the Oakdale Library nor the Friends of the Modesto Library will be continuing their annual used book sales; however, area residents can continue to get bargains on used books at very reasonable prices by purchasing books the Oakdale Library is discarding from its collection.

To keep the library collection fresh and to have space for newer titles, librarians continually weed out the collection of titles or duplicate copies that no longer regularly circulate, titles that have been superseded by newer editions, and damaged or worn copies. These discarded copies are available throughout the year to be purchased by the reading public.