Press release from Friends of the Red Bank Public Library

National Friends of the Library Week is October 20-27 this year — and the Friends of the Red Bank Public Library are kicking it off in style, by organizing a “Million Penny Project for the Red Bank Public Library” as a community-wide fundraiser.

The year-long project will raise much needed funds to support the Library (the math: a million pennies equals $10,000). Receptacles will be placed at the Library (84 West Front Street), and at several other locations around Red Bank to collect the change, which will be counted each week by TD Bank on West Front Street.

A proclamation from Red Bank Mayor Pat Menna will be read at the Red Bank Halloween Parade, turning Broad Street into “Penny Lane” for a “Million Penny Day.” Volunteers will be at the parade collecting pennies and handing out treats.

“If some other change gets into the mix, we’ll be OK with nickels, dimes and quarters,” says Friends president Beth Hanratty. “This should be an exciting challenge for schools, local business, service clubs and scout troops.” Anyone who is interested in partnering for the campaign should contact the Library.

In addition to kicking off the Million Penny Campaign, the Friends will be organizing a few membership events in October, including a Public Book Swap on Wednesday, October 23, from 7 to 8:30 pm at RBPL.  Bring a maximum of 5 books, take 5, have some cookies and cider, and make a few new friends. For more info, call the Red Bank Public Library at (732)842-0690.