Friendliness, dedication and a strong desire to read are the characteristics in demand at the Radium Hot Springs Public Library, according to library director Jane Jones.

“We have a group of very dedicated volunteers, but from time to time, they do go away on holidays or have other commitments,” she explained, noting the spots are typically filled in times of need.

There are a total of seven regular volunteers at the library. However, Jones is always eager to accept newcomers.

“We’re always open for volunteers,” said Jones. “It’s good if they (applicants) enjoy working with people and enjoy books.”

She is also aware of the strong concern from the community about the dwindling book sales.

“The reason the book sales are down is because we didn’t have the summer book sale at the Market on Main this year,” Jones explained, adding it takes about six volunteers to man the summer book sale. “It’s too much of a heavy duty to ask people to commit themselves to that type of thing. That’s definitely one of the reasons why we didn’t have the book sale.”

Another issue is lack of space, added Jones. Previously, books were kept in a vacant office building nearby. However, the space has been rented and now the Radium Hot Springs Public Library is challenged to find room for book donations.

“So we haven’t got the storage space to keep donated books, but we do have a donated (pocket) book section in the library,” she said. “We keep as many donated books as possible on the shelves because they’re great for travellers.”