Xian Min Zhuo

Who or what got you started with the Friends?
Recently, Friend's president (at the time), Paul Geoffroy, invited me to join the board. This is my first term.
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How long have you been involved with the Friends?
I have been helping with the book sales for about 10 years. Since then, I have met and worked with some wonderful people. 

What is your favorite part of being a Friend?
My family and I joined the Friends as a way to show our appreciation to what our library has been providing for us as well as for the town. Growing up in Shanghai, China 30 plus years ago, I, liked the majority of the people in the city had no access to libraries. Any books we wanted to read, we had to buy ourselves or borrow from friends. Once in a while, some book vendors would bring a bunch of books to our neighborhood, set up a makeshift reading area on sidewalks. Kids would pay a few cents per book to read right there. As a little girl, I used to dream that I could go into a library to borrow lots of lots books. Now I have the opportunity to do so.

What would you tell someone who is interested in joining the Friends?
My family and I have benefitted great deal from our library. I am a 'notorious' heavy borrower. Our almost 23 year old daughter grew up at our library story time. Every time, my husband needed a highly technical, hard find academic book, our library staff was able to get it for him. Friends works very hard to ensure that our library provides the town people with the best service its resources allow. My family and I feel good to be part of such an organization. This is our way to give back. We also enjoy meeting some wonderful people through the Friends.

Do you have a favorite author or book?
I am into thrillers and  mysteries. David Baldacci is on top of my list.