Alva Review-Courier -

Twenty-five years – quarter of a century. Yes, it’s true that Friends of the Alva Public Library has been in existence that long.

In April of 1998, under the advisement of then head librarian Larry Thorne, several interested community members met to discuss the possibility of forming a Friends group to support the library with services offered to the Alva community and surrounding areas.

At the first general meeting on June 1, 1998, the following became charter members of the Alva Friends chapter: Richard Downer, Annie Evans, Margy Ewalt, Rocky Fox, Karee Hada, Bea LeValley, Shelley Martin, Vera Cullison McCrary, Alycen Ridgway (now Yoder), Mary Tello, Larry Thorne, Linda Tutwiler, Imagene Tyree, Mary Helen Wilson and Reva Black (now Maddox).

Friends held their first book sale in the library’s basement on Saturday, June 25, 1998. Additional ideas for fundraisers were explored, with the group deciding to experiment with a live auction of chocolate and other goodies. They named this event “Chocolate Fantasy” and held the first one on March 1, 1999. The rest is history!

This event was so popular with the community that it has been an annual event except for the years 2020 and 2021 when Covid concerns prompted its cancellation.

Book sales and the Chocolate Fantasy have proven the generosity of library supporters. These fundraising efforts have allowed Friends to help purchase books and equipment and provide numerous services not allowed for in the library’s budget.

Membership in Friends is open year round to community members of all ages. New members and new ideas are always welcomed. More information about becoming a member can be obtained at the library.

The 2023 Chocolate Fantasy is now in the planning process. Be sure to watch for upcoming announcements and plan to attend this exciting, fun-filled evening to lend support to Friends of the Alva Public Library.