Story & Photo contributed by Carolyn W. Boatner
IDER, Ala. — The Ider Homemakers and Community Leaders applied for a grant from the DeKalb County HCL and the Alabama State HCL for use in the Ider Public Library.
We were awarded the grant and were excited to present it to the Ider Library on August 9,2019. Along with the original grant the Ider HCL added funds which we do each year.
The grant money will be used for extra shelving which is needed in the ever-expanding library. The new location is filled with books just waiting to be checked out and enjoyed.
Sandy Roberts and Teresa Hatfield are doing a superb job as did the now retired Jan Hatfield. We all miss Jan, but know she is enjoying her retirement. Many programs are being presented there including local authors, music, painting and other very interesting programs. Many more activities are being planned as the summer gives way to autumn. All the board members work very hard to provide this outstanding service to the Ider community.
The Ider Library is very near and dear to our hearts in the HCL since some of our original members originated the idea for a library and worked diligently to see it come to be. We were extremely honored to have Mrs. Charles Berry (Louise) one of the original founders of both the library and the Ider HCL present at the grant presentation. Louise is nearing 100 and still is an avid reader. She is an inspiration to all who meet her with her cheerful, helpful, non-complaining attitude. It would not have been the same without her presence there. If you get a moment send her a card to let her know how much you appreciate her contributions to the town of Ider and its surroundings. Thank you for all you do, Louise.
The Ider HCL has been busy in the last few months. We have picked the quilt winner: Mr. J.A. Bates. Mr. Bates has been a long-time contributor, always buying tickets from us. We are so happy he is the winner, and wish everyone who bought a ticket could have been the winner. The quilt this year is very beautiful. Thanks to all of you who purchased tickets from us at Foodland and other venues. We appreciate and will put the money to very good use. We donate to the library, as mentioned,. St. Jude Hospital, Shriners Hospital, the American Cancer Society, local fire and rescue departments and other worthy causes locally. Along the way we find time to take donations to the homeless shelter in Chattanooga, Tn, sew little dresses for Africa, pillowcases for the Indian reservations, and other things we hope make a slight difference.
We are fortunate to have two members this year and hope to add more. If you are interested in joining our group, please call 256-632-2037 or check on our Facebook page.
