New twist for Bosler fund-raiser

By Kristin Wilson, February 24, 2005

Last updated: Thursday, February 24, 2005 11:02 AM EST

It's out with the old and in with the new for the Friends of the Bosler Memorial Library.

This year the group's 22-year-old benefit auction event has been put in mothballs in favor of two smaller events, says Karen Rovegno, president of the organization that works to support the community library.

In April, the Friends will stage a Monte Carlo night at St. Patrick's Church on Marsh Drive in South Middleton Township. Another event is planned for the fall, but the Friends are not saying what it will be.

"We know how to do an auction," Rovengo says. "We've done it for years and we do it very well.

"Next year we can always go back to the auction."

Successful fund-raiser

Although auction proceeds fell off between 2001-04, the Friends have netted more than $870,000 since the auction premier in 1983.

Also last year, the Friends presented the library's board of trustees with a check for $100,000 — the most money raised by the organization in a single year. That figure doubled the Friends' 2003 contribution.

In addition to the auction proceeds, the $100,000 came mostly from cookbooks sales, a membership drive and profits from the Bookery, which sells used books.

"As successful as we were last year, it was difficult to make the decision" to cancel the auction, Rovegno says.

"I think it's a great idea" to change the event, says Linda Rice, library director. "The new ideas, new blood — it just makes things fresh. I think this group is brave to shift gears."

Try something new

Rovegno says 2005 presents an opportunity to try something new and create a buzz in the community.

The Monte Carlo event will run from 7-11 p.m. April 30, with a silent auction featuring themed baskets from 7-9 p.m., gaming from 8-10 p.m. and bidding on live auction items with phony gambling winnings at 10 p.m.

Local celebrity dealers will run the blackjack, poker, craps and roulette tables.

Desserts, appetizers, beer and wine will be served.

Tickets go on sale this week at the library for $35 per person.

Rovengo says tickets are limited to about 200, so those who wish to participate should get their tickets early.

"It might draw a different crowd than we've had for the benefit," Rovegno says.

Those who attend must be at least 21 years old. All transactions must be in cash or by check.

For more information, call the library at 243-4642.