Helen Washburn, DBRL Foundation Board President
Helen Washburn grew up in Idaho and spent a lot of time in the Boise Public Library which was a lovely Carnegie building. She says, “I was always encouraged to read as much as I wanted and when I wanted.” Helen served as the president of Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri for 18 years before retiring to Columbia. She has lived in Boone County for 21 years and served on the DBRL Foundation board for seven years.
Why do you believe libraries are essential to our community?
Libraries provide information to everyone, and the children’s programs are so important to families. Free public libraries are the cornerstone of our democracy. We must do everything to see that they are continued and preserved. Libraries are a place where access to information and free speech are respected and nourished.
What do you love most about the library?
Sitting in the lobby and watching the wide variety of people come and go. I especially enjoy watching all the moms and dads, grandparents and caregivers with the kids.
Why did you want to serve on the DBRL Foundation board?
It is a way of giving back and paying forward.
What library project or initiative that the Foundation helped fund makes you proudest?
Raising funds for bookmobile services. [In 2019, the Foundation raised more than $158,000 in donations so the library could purchase a specially equipped van called the Book Rover to bring story times and books to more than 4,200 preschoolers in child care centers.]
Do you have a favorite personal library memory?
There are beautiful murals in the children’s library in the Boise Public Library. As a child I was fascinated by the scenes from children’s books that they portrayed.
What book would you recommend others read?
“The Library Book” by Susan Orlean
Why do you think it’s meaningful to give to the library?
Libraries can always find ways to use extra funds. In this uncertain time, with the need for public support of libraries being challenged, contributing to libraries is more important than than ever.
Created and governed by caring volunteers in our communities, the Daniel Boone Regional Library Foundation is a separate 501(c)(3) organization that raises funds to exclusively support the mission and goals of the Daniel Boone Regional Library. Funds are used both for immediate and annual library needs, and funds are also invested with a goal of creating long-term support.