Chair-ish the Library '25 - Norwalk Easter Public Library Fundraiser
- Calli Tuggle
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 18 hours ago
I am an avid reader and a huge supporter of public libraries and everything they offer to their communities from books, games, audiobooks, summer reading programs, and a safe haven for adults and child, so when I was approached and asked to photograph the Chair-ish the Library event, I knew this was my gig.
My summers were spent riding my bike to my local library--shout out to my childhood library, Humboldt Public Library and would participate in their summer reading program, where I won prizes ranging from free books, a camping tent, and even Adventureland Passes! I later served on the Teen Advisory Board (TAB) for the library and helped curated a space for teens and helped choose which new books to purchase.
Enough of my reminiscing though! Before we dive into the Chair-ish the Library event, I think it's important to understand the Norwalk Easter Public Library Foundation (NEPLF). The Foundation was founded in 1999 to help fill some of the gaps with funding. The foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with board members all living in Iowa and supporting their communities. The foundation helps expand library services such as summer reading programs, renovations, and expand the library's offering.
The catch line for Chair-ish is 'Pull up a seat and help shape the library' which I absolutely adore! The event was a 21+ event and your admission ticket granted you access to the delicious grazing table Chair-ceturie board by Whip it Good Catering . The Indianola based company offers everything from catering, freezer meals, and cooking classes!
Frank and Collette with Top it Off Liquid Catering were serving up drinks all night long. I can attest that their signature peach sangria was delicious! Each ticketed admission to the event received one drink ticket. The duo was slinging drinks the entire evening--everything from sangria, mixed drinks, to bottled drinks like High Noon.
Entertainment for the evening was provided by Norwalk's own, singer and songwriter Sara Routh. Sara has a jazz-folk style of music that is unmatched. It was the perfect audio backdrop for guests to walk around to observe the chairs that would be auctioned later on in the evening. Sara even made a surprise appearance as the library's most loved mascot, Scribbles!
Bellflower Florist and Gifts donated five floral arrangements to the event to add the perfect pop of color and elegance.
Putney Auction out of Indianola provided their fast-talking auctioneer skills for the evening events. Mark (with a K) not only provided his service, but was also giving out free jokes and the occasional jabs all evening that had the crowd rolling with laughter.
The chairs, tables, and even a quilt that were donated and auction to the event were from local businesses, residents, students, and anonymous donors. Each chair was uniquely refurbished and many had ties to the community with the notorious Norwalk 'N' or bookthemed. The chair that went home with me was the majestic lion chair donated by Whiskers TNR Of Warren County.
HIRTA was a valuable resource to the event as well. They provided a free shuttle from the library to additional parking at the Norwalk High School parking lot. I think we owe a huge 'Thank You' to the planning committee and their commitment to their library, their community, and the children that live here. We are in a time where our government is decreasing funding to libraries and placing restrictions on the books that school libraries are able to have available for students. Our libraries are doing MORE with less resources.
Chair-ish the Library received 90% of their fundraising goal! This is great news, but I would love to see that number grow even larger. I know that times are hard for everyone right now, but I'd encourage you to find ways to support your local library through your time, talents, or your financial contributions. You can check out ways to support the library here. Take note of the upcoming events as well, because May 9th and 10th there's a Junk in Your Trunk event. You can buy a spot and sell your 'junk' or garage sale items out of your car's trunk. Buyers receive 100% of their earnings, meanwhile, 100% of the ticket goes to the library. It's a win-win! You get items out of your home, you earn a few dollars, and the library will receive a donation. The library will also be hosting a used book sale on May 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Donations can be dropped off at the library ahead of time. The books will be re-sold and all money will be put towards the 2025 Summer Reading Program. The summer reading program encourages reading and prevents the 'Summer Slip' when students slip behind in their academics in the summer when they're not being mentally challenged. Events and experiences that the library offers prevents that slipping and allows children to maintain their academic level year-round.
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