The Home Page Network

Many people think of libraries as a quiet place for bookworms. While the Mansfield Free Public Library has countless books to scratch your reading itch, they offer so much more to the community! Programs such as children’s Lego hour, pre-school story time, and summer reading are some of their youth-oriented options. There are also extensive online resources provided, including Heritage Quest, a genealogical database. The Mansfield Library, of course, offers basic conveniences to the public, such as: book checkout, audio books, DVD rentals, internet, copying, printing, and faxing. As the library newsletter says, “Libraries today are less about what they have for people and more about what they do for and with the communities they serve… A wealth of activities awaits for the entire family…”

VP of the Board of Directors, Alice Gottschall, took some time to tell Home Page about all of these services and a brief overview of how the library functions. One of the main groups that supports the Mansfield Library is The 1901 Society. Each member’s yearly donation helps to address funding needs that go above and beyond the allotted budget. In addition, the library holds some significant fundraisers throughout the year. There are two annual Book Drives hosted by the Mansfield Free Public Library. Used books are collected throughout the year to sell at these book drives, and the sales are a huge success.

By far, their tastiest campaign is coming on Saturday, March 11. The library will host a Chicken BBQ, beginning at 10am. Chicken will be sold for $7.50/half, but pre-orders can be placed in the library for $7.00/half. Tshe sale will be taking place in from of the library on Main Street. The sauce is being made by local legend, Arnie Brion, and the Chicken is sure to sell out quickly!

For more information about the Mansfield Free Public Library, visit their website, or visit their Facebook page. And, be sure to get some delicious BBQ Chicken on the 11th!