Library celebrates, fundraises with block party

The Homewood Public Library Foundation Board held its second annual Block Party fundraiser on April 15.

This year five restaurants — Nabeel’s, Jojo’s on Broadway, Demitri’s, Little Donkey and Homewood Gourmet — teamed up to create a cohesive menu for adults.

 “The businesses are so generous to donate the food,” said Fran Jones, chair of Library Foundation Board.

Paul Doran first had the idea to start the foundation in 2011 to provide additional funding for the library. Homewood Public Library receives funds from the city for existing programs, but not for long-term growth projects. That’s where the foundation’s fundraising comes in. 

After the Block Party, the foundation hopes to start on its first project, adding new outdoor lighting in the parking lot. Jones said that between this event, last year’s Block Party and a third fundraiser held in April at Good People Brewing Company, they should have the funds they need for the lighting and can start looking at new signage as well. 

Ultimately, the foundation hopes to grow and take on larger projects. Long term they would like to add a new computer lab on the main floor; now it is located in the basement. One day they would also like to build an auditorium to host concerts and other events. 

Library Foundation Board members are Fran Jones, George Elliott, John Krontiras, Lois Woodward, Julee Potter, Ann Chapman, Laura Blackstock, Melissa Schultz-Jones, Jennifer Schmidt, Julie Mizerany, Joe Sanders, Roy Morton amd Hunter Payne.