By Michelle Jannazo
Good morning, Lori! How’s life in Freeport?
Life in Freeport is a combination of running my son to activities, swimming, working, nights out with friends and feeling blessed that we live in a place that most people dream of visiting!
You’re active in our community as well. How are you involved?
In addition to being a full-time Realtor with Fathom Realty, I am a volunteer board member with the Freeport Merchants Association. I’ve raised funds and collected food for our local animal shelters and fundraised for various other causes. I am also president of the Friends of the Freeport Public Library.
What is the Friends of the Freeport Public Library (FFPL)?
The Friends of the Freeport Public Library is a non-profit organization with a volunteer board dedicated to support operations, growth and expansion of the Freeport Public Library. We have created programs, memberships, and more to facilitate community involvement.
When did FFPL start?
The Freeport Public Library opened in July 1986 with a donated collection and volunteer staff. The current library facility opened in 2001 with support of the FFPL. After the completion, this original FFPL group continued to volunteer but dissolved in 2008. In 2019, the FFFPL registered as a new organization and has been going strong!
How many board members does FFPL have?
We currently have three officers. I am the president, Kristine Bacon is vice-president and secretary, and Rita Smiley is our treasurer. The FFPL is an all-volunteer organization. We are searching for a fundraising chair and a membership chair.
What areas of the library does FFPL support?
We support a variety of programs such as Summer Reading, Spice of the Month, Sensory Bins, Lego League and more. We even have a Little Food Pantry outside the library for anyone who needs a little extra.
Do you think libraries are important for a strong community?
Absolutely! Beyond offering books as fun and educational tools, the library provides access to computers, clubs, classes, technology assistance, 3D printers, faxing services and more. Our Freeport Library has had record growth and memberships. The numbers show an ongoing and increased need for a local library to serve our growing community.
How many people does the Freeport Library serve?
We have around 9,000 cardholders that have Freeport as their primary location. However, any Walton County resident can use the library. The county system has around 44,000 cardholders.
And that number will only continue to grow. What programs does the library offer?
The library hosts a summer reading program each year. Year-round programs include preschool story time, LEGO Club, Anime Club, Chess Club, Adult Book Club, Homeschool Book Club, Workshop Wednesdays, Spice of the Month and a variety of individual programs encompassing art, reading, literacy, health and community throughout the year. All events are on the website calendar at WaltonLibraries.com.
How many people are on the library staff?
Freeport has one branch manager, two full-time library clerks, and one part-time library clerk. The director’s office is also located at Freeport, and one part-time floating library clerk works at Freeport on Saturdays.
Does the library have volunteers?
Yes! The library has volunteers to host programs like Reading Therapy Dogs and Chess, and sometimes you can see our local teens helping prep materials for programs and events!
What is the library’s operating budget?
The library is part of the Walton County Public Library System, so all four of the county’s libraries operate with a $1.3 million budget.
How has FFPL has supported the library?
Funding programs, writing grants and getting a new bookmobile!
Wow, a bookmobile! Is this a new initiative?
Yes! We’ve received a grant from the St. Joe Community Foundation to fully fund a brand-new bookmobile, which will serve all of Walton County. It includes a wheelchair ramp, Wi-Fi and shelving units filled with resources. We’ve applied for a grant from the Impact 100 to fund the books, tablets and materials to stock the bookmobile. We are honored and blessed to have these opportunities to serve our community.
You mentioned St. Joe Community Foundation. Who are some of the other business and community sponsors of the FFPL?
CHELCO, Dugas Family Foundation, Publix, Walmart and ECAR have all made donations or funded grants in the last year.
Does the library accept donations?
Yes! Monetary donations are the best way to help, but gently used books of all types are welcome.
What are some of the current activities of the FFPL?
In the short-term we are committed to support ongoing library programs and needs. We have plans to update our website and pamphlets to include current data and easier ways to contact us to volunteer, donate, or obtain information.
What are your long-term goals for the FFPL and library?
Our most important long-term goal is to build a new library. We’ve received approval to add an addition to the current building. That’s a huge accomplishment for us this year! Now, we begin the process of funding and planning construction. Fundraising is our top priority, and a strong fundraising chairperson and committee are vital for this next step.
How can people contact you if they’d like to donate or be involved?
People can share their name and contact information with any of the wonderful library staff. They may also email me at president@ffplonline.org or connect through our Facebook page: Friends of the Freeport Public Library. Our meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m. at Freeport City Hall. Potential volunteers are welcome.
Of course, I must ask: What’s your favorite book?
I am glad you asked! My favorite book of all time is Little Women. Black Beauty wins a close second. I enjoy reading books that my kids enjoy also such as the Harry Potter series.
Thanks, Lori. See you at the library!
20 Questions on the Coast is an interview series highlighting servant leadership in communities across the Panhandle.
