The Friends of the Garland County Library are celebrating 50 years of supporting one of Hot Springs' most treasured community resources. Since 1976, the organization has helped enhance library collections, programs, and services through fundraising, volunteerism, and community advocacy.

A cornerstone of those efforts is the Back Corner Bookshop, located inside the Garland County Library. The oldest used bookstore in Hot Springs, the shop is open every day the library is open and is staffed entirely by Friends volunteers. Shoppers can browse gently used books, puzzles, DVDs, audiobooks, and more, with every purchase directly benefiting the library.

"The Friends of the Garland County Library have been an inspiration for me," said Friends Treasurer Jodie Tooke. "I've always loved books, and helping the library bring that passion to our community is very satisfying. The Friends find ways to fund library programs, and virtually all proceeds from sales go to the library to support children, teens, adults, and seniors in their quest for knowledge. I'm constantly amazed at how well we do with sales and hope people continue to support our library. Materials are priced very reasonably. It's a great place to shop for gifts!"

The community is invited to celebrate this milestone on Sunday, August 16, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Garland County Library lobby. The free event will feature refreshments, door prizes, volunteer information, commemorative 50th anniversary tote bags for sale, and a complimentary tote bag for new Friends members.

The Garland County Library extends its heartfelt thanks to the Friends for 50 years of dedicated service and lasting support of the community.