Completed Projects

Fully-Funded Projects & Programs

The Friends committee is proud to recognize some of the projects that have been completed in service to the Library. These projects include physical improvements and repairs of the Library’s property (both interior and exterior), additions to and replacement of furniture, and the enhancement of special displays in the Library. The committee has also financed the completion of an “official portrait” of BFJ, painted by renowned local artist Linda Barnicott, entitled “Then, Now, Forever,” which was unveiled in October 2023. The original hangs in the Director’s Office, while prints, Christmas ornaments, bookmarks, and magnets featuring the portrait’s artwork are available for purchase.

In 2024/2025, the committee has also funded the replacement of the Library’s façade lighting, the completion of exterior/interior window washing, the installation of new signage to indicate the handicapped-accessible parking and entrance, the installation of new shelving in the elevator room and the closet near the accessible entrance, the completion of maintenance to the flag pole in the Library’s courtyard, the pruning of the trees and shrubs around the Library, the framing of artwork in the Reference and Children’s Departments, and the production of identification plaques beneath the portraits of B.F. Jones (the Reading Room), Elisabeth Horne (the Reference Room), and Henry Mancini (the lower level near the elevator).

The Donor Tree

In its 96-year history, the B.F. Jones Memorial Library has been supported by the generous donations of the patrons whose lives have been touched by the Library and its operation. In 2023, to formally recognize some of those donors, the Friends of the B.F. Jones Memorial Library committee sponsored the installation of a beautiful, unique Donor Tree on the wall just inside the main entrance.

The purpose of the tree is not to highlight one-time donations, but instead to recognize and honor those who have given – and continue to give – loyally to the Library. There are six distinct categories represented by the Donor Tree.

  • Green Leaves: Donors who have given each year for a period of 3-5 years.
  • Bronze Leaves: Donors who have given each year for a period of 6-10 years.
  • Silver Leaves: Donors who have given each year for a period of 11-15 years.
  • Gold Leaves: Donors who have given each year for a period of 16+ years.
  • Acorns: Donors who have given $10,000.
  • Stones: Donors who have given $50,000.

Repair and Reconditioning of the “Chelsea” Clock

The Chelsea clock, which hangs in the mezzanine behind the Main Circulation Desk, is a staple of the Library. As a nearly 100-year-old timepiece, it has required some repair in the last few years. The Friends have been honored to fund the repair and reconditioning of the beloved clock, so that generations of patrons may continue to enjoy its timeless elegance.

Digital Bulletin Board

Installed at the Main Circulation Desk in the Library, a television purchased by the Friends acts as a digital bulletin board. The television runs throughout the course of the business day at BFJ, and is most often used for advertising upcoming events, highlighting past events, programs, and community relationships, and showing slideshows of photographs from past Library happenings. It has proven to be a worthy and helpful addition to the Library, and has even been known to provide some entertainment!

Computer Tables & Jones Zone Chairs

New computer tables have been purchased for the Library’s Reading Room, which feature sturdy construction, beautiful dark-cherry paneled tops, and are height-adjustable. The Jones Zone has also been refurnished with three new, extremely comfortable, armchairs to replace the old ones, which had begun to show excessive wear in their upholstery and their structure. These were purchased and installed in the Library in April 2025, and have already received excellent feedback from patrons.

Partially Funded Projects & Programs

Some of the projects and programs that the Friends undertake are funded with additional support from the Library community: patrons, local businesses, and other agencies. These are often larger-scale projects, such as the restoration of our historic front doors, a property survey of the Library’s campus, the purchase of seven new book transport carts, the development of our Jones Zone History Cabinets, and the redesign of the Children’s Department picture book room and its rededication as “Angela’s Picture Book Room,” in honor of beloved former Friends member (and President of the Library’s Board of Directors), Mrs. Angela M. Stevens.