What is FERL?
The Friends of the Esparto Regional Library is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization with a 7-member, volunteer board of directors dedicated to promoting life-long learning for residents of all ages.
FERL supports the library’s programs and services and is responsible for the management of the FERL Endowment. FERL encourages library patronage by sponsoring programs that focus on the Arts and Sciences.
Each month, a special program happens at the library to entertain and educate.
Esparto Librarian Malinda Baker selects the library programs with input from FERL and from feedback by program attendees.
Thank you Malinda for your commitment to implementing the enrichment programs offered at the library! Check out the upcoming program schedule.
FERL also sponsors the Book Nook, the Almond Festival Book Sale, Garden Maintenance and Library Book purchases.
In 2015, FERL’s primary focus was to coordinate efforts with Yolo County to increase the library’s broadband speed to 1 Gigabyte in order to provide improved Internet access to library visitors.
The Esparto Regional Library received an Internet system upgrade in the fall of 2015 with a broadband speed of 1 Gigabit! The increased Internet speed will provide library patrons improved access to the world wide web including enhanced ability to: conduct job searches, do research, tap into educational programs, connect with friends and family via social networking, and read electronic books. Nationally, libraries report that patron demand for high-speed Internet access is growing faster than their ability to provide increased bandwidth. A recent American Library Association study reports that 60 percent of all libraries say their current Internet speed is insufficient. Public libraries provide free, essential services to communities through broadband Internet technologies. Broadband enables library patrons to have access to E-government, employment, education, health and other Internet-enabled services and resources. This system upgrade has been made possible with a grant to Yolo County from the Corporation for Education Network Initiatives in California (CENIC).
In 2018, FERL focused on the following goals in addition to supporting programs at the library:
1. ESL classes (English as a Second Language) courses for community members. A grant class from the county started in August–October and Woodland Community College will start soon and follow through next Spring. These classes have been maxing out with attendance.
2. Esparto Library is now open during the lunch hour. Thanks to Yolo County Library and Esparto Unified School District.
3. A generous Grant from the Yocha Dehe Community Fund will modernize the Wintun Community room at the Library. The grant will provide 32 Chromebook computers, 60 new chairs, an updated audio video system, and Library Signage.
FERL memberships form the foundation of the organization. Thank you FERL members for supporting the Esparto Regional Library!
If not yet a member, become a member today to enhance
programs and services at your local library!