By PHOEBE DONALD ROBINSON / Community Columnist

The Friends of the Columbiana Public Library (FOL) is an active group of people whose primary purpose is to support the library with extra needed funds, programs and volunteer support.

Past fundraisers include the Central Alabama Antique and Appraisal Show, Columbiana Quilt Walk, book and bake sales.

Funds raised have been used for projects such as special adult and children’s programs, new bookshelves, laptops, new technical devices and movies fees.

During this period when a new permanent librarian is being hired by the Columbiana Library Board, a separate entity, the FOL is assisting Interim Library Director Jane Bailey with monthly children’s programs consisting of a story, craft and refreshments for ages K-fifth grade.

In 2014, programs on the Constitution, Thanksgiving and Christmas were given.

The first five months of children’s programs in 2015 are organized.

Programs are free from 4–5 p.m.

Linda Major, Jan Smith and Carolyn Mundy have planned a winter theme program on Jan. 15; Peggy Wood, Judy Jones and Judi Elliott, Valentine program for Feb. 12; Judy Jones, Barbara Robinson and Phoebe Robinson, Easter program for March 19; the Teen Advisory Board hopefully will present a spring program on April 9; and Wood and Robinson will plan the May 14 program.

No fees or reservations are needed; just bring your child to have a time of fun in the children’s area of the library.

Sarah Atchison is chairing a book and bake sale this spring, date TBA. Atchison is making a quilt to be raffled with proceeds for the library.

Books will be sold at a discounted price, delicious bake goods will be for sale and hopefully lunch will be served, soup and cornbread, with quilt displays to view.

Look for the date on the Columbiana calendar and FOL Facebook page.

The FOL meets the third Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. at the library.

Upcoming meeting dates are Jan. 20, Feb. 17, March 17, April 21 and May 19.

Come join and be a part of this active, fun group to support the Columbiana Public Library.