We have all heard stories of good coming from tragedy, and “Friends of the Library” began just that way. In December 1985, Fillmore residents Roberta Nelson and her husband Charles, a local veterinarian, lost their cherished adopted son John in a private plane crash during a blinding snowstorm, en route to a Christmas skiing vacation in Utah. In lieu of cards or gifts, Roberta, a kindergarten through second grade teacher for many years, and later, Curriculum Coordinator and Material Specialist at San Cayetano Elementary School, requested cash donations, to purchase books in John’s memory for the Fillmore Library. Honoring her son and reflecting her own interest in the betterment of the community, Roberta and a small committee began organizational efforts for the Fillmore Chapter of the Friends of the Library.

During the next four years, Roberta, Myrna Taylor, Judy Dunst, Betty Rubel, Helen Knight, Janine Rees, Mary Winterstein and Betty Hardison spent untold hours contacting librarians and chapter presidents for guidance. Rees and Isabel Galvan contacted local clubs, while County Librarian, Betty Cook, handled publicity and filed the Federal and State forms for tax exemption and non-profit status. The organizational committee met on April 19, 1989, elected its first official officers, and incorporated on March 20, 1990.

Early membership grew through letters and verbal invitations to friends and neighbors throughout Fillmore. Solicitation of private donations and dues at various levels were solicited as they are today. Roberta published the first newsletter in 1990, an ongoing effort by Chapter members. Patricia Askay took leadership after Roberta’s death in 1998 until 2005. Patti Walker is the current President.

For years, “Friends” has sponsored numerous daytime library programs for children, youths, adults, and summer reading. Evening adult educational and informational programs presented by experts and/or advisors include history, South American Indian culture, water-recycling plant, fitness, medical and financial. Works of local artists are on display due to the efforts of the organization. The Children’s Section has benefited from the donation of four sets of colorful tables and chairs, game rug, and room decorations. Additionally, the chapter purchased revolving book displays, projection screen, window drapes, patio furniture and canopy, rolling shelves and a microfiche cabinet. Annually, the Chapter provides substantial funds for new books through interest earned from a trust account.

Fillmore Library was started in 1916 by Mrs. Lucy Jorgenson, who served as its’ first librarian. Later, the library, then located on the upper floor of Fillmore State Bank on the corner of Santa Clara Street and Central Avenue was under the supervision of long-time librarian, Bonetta Dresser. Through several relocations, two of the most memorable librarians were Hazel Cheek, a no-nonsense woman who took the position in 1938 after her husband Homer died, until 1959. Beloved by all, Arthur Arundell, a genial third generation Fillmorian followed from 1959 to 1987. Arundell died a bachelor in the same room of the same house he was born. The library’s current home is at 502 Second Street. The 3,300 square foot building, erected in 1955, sits on land donated by the William Shiells Company. Cathy Krushell, Library Supervisor, has held the position since October 2003.

Funding is always an issue for Fillmore Library, a member of the Ventura County Library System, enjoying sharing privileges with fourteen additional member libraries. Funding from property taxes collected by the City earmarked for the library (1% of 1%), has decreased for years since the passing of Proposition 13. Operating expenses exceed stagnated income every year, and to make matters worse, donations and Chapter membership dues are down, mirroring tough economic times. Donations from Best Rock and the former Masonic Temple Foundation in 2002 are in a special interest bearing account at the Santa Clara Valley Bank. In addition, the County holds a substantial private endowment from the Wigley Estate (Lucille Snapp Wigley), in trust, earmarked as Fillmore’s “fair share” if and when a grant is awarded, with interest released to purchase books. Nevertheless, the goal for expansion of the library’s building, additional books, adult and children’s programs, and longer hours to accommodate our town’s growing population, remains far in the future. Board members suggest more commitment from the community such as a parcel tax (e.g. the community pool) would help.

The current Board of Directors: Patti Walker, Myrna Taylor, Iris Martin and Patricia Askay and the working membership strive to keep a positive attitude. They recognize the importance of their work, helping to provide additional means for intellectual nourishment of Fillmore’s children and adults too. Since the early days in Roberta Nelson’s living room twenty years ago, her organization has accomplished much towards the betterment of our library and its’ patrons young and old. “Friends of the Library” will celebrate its’ 20th Anniversary with a meeting-celebration, April 11th, noon until 4 P.M., on the grassy area to the north of the Fillmore Library and the Memorial Building. Highlights include recitations of winning poems from the Chapter sponsored contest, submitted by Fillmore Middle School students. Refreshments and surprises are planned, and the local public is cordially invited to attend.

Show your support with a cash donation for their anniversary, or by joining during Friends of the Library’s annual membership drive during the month of June, or anytime. For more information contact Patti Walker at 524-2731 and/or send donations and dues to Friends of the Library, P.O. Box 744, Fillmore, CA 93016.

Thanks to the City of Fillmore, the library enjoys expanded hours. Scheduled operating hours: Monday and Tuesday, 2 P.M.–7 P.M., Wednesday, 10 A.M.-5 P.M., Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Noon-5 P.M.