Annual Meeting

Don't forget that our Annual Meeting will be the 23rd of January at 7:00. The board will be sending out revised bi-laws to all members in January so that you can vote on approving them, or not, at the meeting.

Volunteer!

We are still looking for a new secretary and a few committee heads, so please think about volunteering. Making sure the Friends keeps running smoothly will be an easy job if we all lend a hand.

If you are interested in the San Joaquin County Annual Library Report, you can find it on the SSJCPL web page.

Our December Programs

The two special programs in December were very well received: "Police Officers to the Rescue" and "Mission Bells Hand Bell Performance" had all ages in both audiences. Thanks to both groups for their presentations.

Library Changes

If you think things look brighter in the library - you're right. The Public Works staff has completed shampooing the carpet throughout the building. What a difference!

Inspired Silliness with Owen Baker-Flynn

Owen Baker-Flynn is one of San Francisco's funniest, family-friendly entertainers. His show features comedy, juggling, balancing tricks and much more inspired silliness with lots of audience participation. Mark your calendar now and come early to get a seat!

Foreign Film Nights

On the second Tuesday of each month, at 6 p.m., the Ripon Branch Library presents a Foreign Film Night for Adults. This free program will feature award-winning films from around the world. This program is aimed at adults in that many of the films are rated R and, therefore, not intended for children. Popcorn and refreshments will be provided. Continue the learning by checking out books, reviewing online databases, and searching the Internet - all for free at your local public library!

Donation Recognition

In December 2011 the Friends of the Library received a generous grant of $1000 from PG&E. This donation will be used for the programs and materials enjoyed by our community and is much appreciated.

THANK YOU!

We appreciate the members who sent in donations last month. We are, of course, still accepting them.

Thank you for your Membership!

The board would like to thank all the members who sent in their membership donations this last month.

We would like to thank Elizabeth O'Fallon, Paula Dubridge, and Marilyn Turpin for stepping up to help me with the Friends of the Library Book Sale. They have already made a difference.

Help the Friends!

If you enjoy coming to the library and participating in the programs and events, help support these programs by making a donation to the Ripon Friends!

• No need to create an account
• you can remain anonymous
• no donation is too small!
• and it's REAL EASY!

We appreciate your giving!

Family Movie Matinee

On the first Thursday of each month, at 3:30 p.m., the Ripon Branch Library presents a Family Movie Matinee.

Families are invited to enjoy a family-friendly film on the big screen, for free at your local library. The film title will be advertised in the library, so drop by to find out what we are showing or give us a call. Fresh popped popcorn will be provided. This free program is provided through the generosity of the Friends of the Ripon Memorial Library.

Game On at the Ripon Branch Library!

On the first Saturday of each month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., come to the library to enjoy a fun and thrilling day playing Wii, X Box, and board games at the Ripon Library Community Room. Snacks are provided, free of charge.

Players are welcome to bring games from home, but please give it to a library staffmember for review. Signs up in advance are NOT required and players can show up anytime between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to play.

While you're at the library, don't forget to check out our extensive collection of video game cheat books, manga, comics, DVDs, and music.

Teen Movie Day

Kick back, relax, and catch a flick at the Ripon Library, every second Saturday of the month at 1 p.m! Free popcorn will be provided.

This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ripon Library and the Ripon Library Teen Advisory Group (RAG).

It's Great to Have Friends

Everywhere you turn, there is news about the budget challenges facing the Stockton San Joaquin Library system which includes the Ripon Memorial Library. Articles have been written that include the possibility of a reduction in service hours, privatizing and layoffs.

While there is much uncertainty, the Friends continue to support, raise funds and advocate for the Ripon Memorial Library. Since the 1970's, the Friends have carried out our mission statement which includes year round support for the Ripon Memorial Library. While the economy has dealt community libraries a tough hand, Friends groups have continued to step up and provide help when it is needed the most. As an advisory group, the Ripon Friends continues to ensure that our work does not stop and are continuing to provide funding for programs, materials and educational resources that are requested from the Ripon community. Our commitment to our mission and to the Ripon community is the driving force behind our keep moving forward efforts. Changes are sure to come but the Friends are committed to providing all that the community has come to expect as our members have empowered us to do.

Join us by continuing to support the Friends through your generous donations, Friends Book Sale purchases, Save Mart S.H.A.R.E.S. card use and ongoing used book donations.

Thank-You!