A reading circle of friends
A dedicated group of volunteers have sought to promote the Rosebank Library and its use in the community.

ROSEBANK – A dedicated group of volunteers have sought to promote the Rosebank Library and its use in the community.
The Friends of the Rosebank Public Library, made up of library users, holds a monthly book sale and formed a book club to help achieve their goals.
According to member Judy Stockhill, “We buy new books from the proceeds of the sale and then review them at our book club. It’s a fun afternoon for a number of retired librarians, members of the University of the Third Age and others who join us.”
Once reviewed, the books are donated to the library.
“The new books get registered on the city’s central system, so they fill up the ‘book pool’. We feel we’re doing something for our fellow citizens throughout the city,” she said.
The group often appeals for donations of used books, not only for the sales, but also to ensure they don’t end up in a landfill.
“The librarian keeps books suitable for going onto the shelves, and our group gets the rest. We try find homes for the books that never seem to sell, and have donated to the German old age home, an art school, and Cida,” said Stockhill.
The library was opened more than 50 years ago, and some group members have been dedicated library users for nearly as long.
“One of our previous committee members used the library as a child. As a young mother, she brought her children to the library, and as a grandmother, has brought her grandchildren,” she said.
Another member, John Crawford, has been a part of the group for 15 years, and has been an avid library user for nearly as long as the library has been open.
Stockhill said the group would welcome new members, expressed hope that new developments in Rosebank would lead to an increase in library utilisation and greater support of the monthly sales.
Details: 011-880-5986; 083-267-7070.