‘Library Sweetheart’ Program Aims to Bring in Resources by Honoring Patrons (Video)

Have a family member who loves reading or watching movies? Honor them this Valentine’s Day by forever engraving their place in the .

The library is introducing its new “Library Sweetheart” program, an effort designed to raise funds and allow residents to honor those they love by purchasing a book, CD, movie or other media in their name. The program is available year round, but the library is making a push this Valentine’s Day.

“You can become a “Library Sweetheart” by honoring someone special, a grandchild, sweetheart, best friend even your pet. Make a lasting donation to the Library in their name. Our librarians will select a book, movie or CD based on your request,” said Jeanne Chmielewski, adult program coordinator at the library.

“Library Sweetheart” works a lot like the name a star program, Library Director Susan Smayda said Monday. The donating individual provides whatever amount they choose, picks a topic and type of media and the loved one of their choice will be commemorated on the cover.

Smayda said the idea came from an existing program which allows residents to donate in honor of someone who has died.

“People come in and they make donations all the time. This is a way for us to say thank you and help them recognize the important people, or even pets, in their lives,” she said. “For $25, we can buy a really great book or couple books.”

There is no limit to the amount someone has to spend, Smayda said. If a book is read 100 times in a year, that $25 book will have helped others save $2,500 in combined purchase costs.

Chmieleski said residents should come prepared to choose a subject such as job searching, self-help, or inspirational reading. The donation is also tax-deductible.

To donate a book, simply go the Southington Public Library and pick up a copy of the library’s “Materials Donation Form.” Fill it out and both you and your Valentine will receive a Valentine’s Day card as well as a specially designed bookplate. The names of the honorees will also be included in the library’s catalog record, staff said.

You can also donate to the library online, although Smayda said you will less opportunity to select a specific topic. To donate online, simply visit the library’s website by clicking on the link provided and choosing the “Support Your Library” link. All online donations will go to the Southington Public Library capital needs and endowment fund.