Visit the Friends' web site for the latest news - http://www.iafriendslibraryfortheblind.org/
Founded in 2005, the Friends of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped is an all volunteer, nonprofit group dedicated to supporting the Library's efforts to be the best. Through our fund-raising efforts, we've been able to:
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Support the Library's Summer Reading Club
Reading is important to scholastic success, and each summer, the Library offers children a fun way to maintain and increase their reading skills by reading throughout their summer vacation. The Friends provide funding for prizes to inspire and excite young readers
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Recognize the contributions of library volunteers
The Library would not be able to meet the needs of print-disabled Iowans without the efforts of a dedicated corps of more than 100 volunteers. These individuals transcribe books into braille, narrate audio recordings, inspect and rewind returned audiocassette books, and perform other needed to tasks to ensure that Iowa readers have access to the information they need for work, school, or personal enrichment. The Friends help the Library to recognize these contributions to Library Service by funding a substantial portion of the Elizabeth Perowsky Volunteer Workshop and Recognition Luncheon each spring
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Sponsor the purchase of sacred texts for print-disabled readers throughout the state
Readers with disabilities may contact the Library to request a personal copy of the Bible, the Koran, the Book of Mormon, or other sacred text
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Support the Iowa Braille Challenge for young Braille readers
This academic competition tests students' skills in reading comprehension, Braille spelling, chart and graph reading, proofreading, and Braille speed and accuracy. Winners move on to the national competition held in Los Angeles. Breakfast, lunch, fun activities and recognition awards are funded by the Friends' donations
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Outfit the Library's reading room
The Friends have purchased attractive and comfortable furniture, carpeting, and lighting to create a cozy, quiet area in the library
Fundraising efforts include an annual garage sale in June and the Iowa Author Reads event each fall.
To learn more, you may contact the Friends at:
Friends of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
P.O. Box 93046
Des Moines, IA 50393-3046
E-mail: FrndsLibBlindPH@gmail.com