To the editor:

On behalf of the Portsmouth Free Public Library I would like to thank Newport Polo for sponsoring the second annual Newport Polo All Charity Day. 

Through this great event over 20 civic and charitable organizations were able to raise funds. Newport Polo provided everything to make this a delightful day and the organizations were able to keep 100 percent of the profits from their ticket sales. Our library raised $1,740, however much more is needed.

Portsmouth Free Public Library, which is a private organization, has over 7,000 patrons come through its door each month. The library is an amazing source of continuing education and recreation for all the citizens of Portsmouth. 

We receive 73.4 percent of our budget from the town in the form of a grant. This year the library has to raise $69,330 (10 percent of the budget) through donations, fund-raising and activities just to make ends meet. Recently, we also discovered that we need both a new septic system and elevator. 

We thank Newport Polo for providing us the avenue to raise money at the event last week. We still have a long way to go. 

Won’t you consider becoming a Portsmouth Free Public Library Association member to support this great community builder? For only $10 a person, Library Association members receive quarterly newsletters about all the library activities and voting rights at the annual meeting in May. 

Please sign up for your membership or send your donation to the Portsmouth Free Public Library. Help us continue to be a beacon for all our citizens who seek knowledge and understanding. Thank you.

Sheila K. Collins

Board member, Portsmouth Free Public Library

213 Fischer Circle

Portsmouth