Jim Knittel

Who or what got you started with the Friends?
My wife Alice and I moved to Belchertown seven years ago and one of the Friends Newsletters was delivered to our house. I guess the previous owners were members. I joined just thinking this was for a good cause, since libraries have been so important to me growing up and in my career.

How long have you been involved with the Friends?
I became involved about one year ago. I had been a member for a couple of years and donated to the library a couple of times. I think it was just time to become more involved and give back to the community in some way. Libraries have always been a place where I’ve enjoyed just spending time browsing the racks and finding new books to read and things to learn.

What is your favorite part of being a Friend?
The interactions with other members at the monthly meetings and learning about Belchertown from them. I really enjoyed working at the book sales this past spring and fall. Especially watching the kids pick out books.

What would you tell someone who is interested in joining the Friends?
I would tell them it is fun experience and a great way to meet people in your community.
 
Do you have a favorite author or book?
Isaac Asimov is probably my absolute favorite and “Childhood’s End” by Arthur C. Clarke ranks right up there as best book. I think I have read it at least five times.  “A Canticle for Leibowitz” by Walter M. Miller, Jr. is a close second. Unfortunately, there are so many great books, that this is a very difficult decision to make.

Do you have any suggestions for the Friends/Library?
None that I haven’t already mentioned at the monthly meetings. I think this is an awesome group that does a lot for the library and community. I can only hope that I will be able to contribute in some small way to help the cause.

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