There is a new group being formed in Cochrane called the Friends of the Cochrane Public Library Society and their primary goal will be to help raise funds for the library.

The pandemic has hit many organizations hard and the Cochrane Public Library is no exception to the rule. It has been on the roller coaster ride of implementing protocols, opening, and closing, and constantly trying to morph to the changing rules to serve its patrons.

Peter Fortna is the Friends’ Chair, and he is just getting things organized. He brings to the role, a wide range of not-for-profit and business experience and is looking forward to getting to work soon.  Fortna says, “We’re a brand-new organization and actually our priority is finding volunteers and board members and hopefully growing and from there in partnership with the library we can develop that priority list and help the library to meet their goals.”

Fortna goes on to say, “In these difficult times, the importance of libraries has been demonstrated, and I believe now is a great time to reengage the community, to offer individuals and businesses an opportunity to be part of this movement.”

He says they are looking for people who want to get more involved in the community. “People with a background in fundraising would be ideal but other backgrounds too. Or people that just want to learn about being involved in a not-for-profit society and looking for a way to give back to our community.”

Once the Friends of Cochrane Public Library Society gets their board together, they will develop a strategic plan to help the Cochrane Public Library meet its fundraising goals.

Cyndie Baum, the Chair of the Cochrane Public Library, says “Friends groups are integral to public libraries as they are created by citizens to use their collective powers to make a lasting difference for their library.” She adds that the library is thrilled to have Peter Fortna heading the society.

If you think you would be interested in being a part of the organization, you can find more information at www.CPLFriends.com or email info@cplfriends.com.