By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle
The Friends of the Ozark Dale County Library (FOL) will kick off the new year with their annual membership luncheon, which will be held on Monday, Jan. 26. The FOL is inviting community members, including current members and those who may be interested in joining the service group to gather in support of public library programs and services.
The luncheon will begin at 11 a.m. in the library’s Bay Meeting Room and will be held as a potluck event. The FOL organization will provide the main dish, while attendees are encouraged to bring a favorite side item such as a salad, casserole, side dishes, and desserts.
In addition to the meal, the event will serve as an opportunity for the public to join or renew their membership for 2026. A registration table will be available during the luncheon, and completed membership forms may also be mailed to the library by those unable to attend.
The meeting will also include the election of officers for the upcoming year. Several long-serving officers are expected to step down, and the organization is encouraging new members to consider serving on the board and share ideas for future fundraising and community outreach initiatives in support of the library.
The featured guest speaker will be current Ozark City Schools Superintendent Reeivice
Girtman, who is scheduled to speak on education and outreach. FOL leaders say the program reflects the importance of the shared mission of schools and libraries as foundations for lifelong learning.
Founded in 1971, the Friends of the Ozark Dale County Library has supported the library through the purchase of books and other library materials, children’s programming, special events, and the operation of the Book Sale Room, with the proceeds from book sales directly supplementing library funding. The organization relies entirely on membership dues and donations to fund its efforts to support the library.
Library supporters interested in becoming involved are encouraged to attend the luncheon or submit a membership form to the library. Organizers say community participation remains vital to sustaining and expanding library services throughout Dale County. If you are unable to attend the luncheon, you may pick up a membership form at the library or download and print one online here or by viewing it below, and mail it along with the membership dues. Instructions are found on the form. For additional information, you may call the library at (334) 774-5480 or email them at [email protected].
The library is located at 296 N Union Ave., Ozark, AL, in the Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center.
