The Godfrey Memorial Library, a library of genealogy and history, closed early on Tuesday, November 10, 2009, so that it could honor its dedicated volunteers. Being a non-profit organization, and receiving no city or state funding, the library relies heavily on its volunteers. They do complicated jobs like analytic cataloging, working on new databases for its website, or filling research requests . They also do simpler, yet equally vital tasks like labeling materials, inventory collections, and even basic housekeeping chores.
A committee from the board of Directors, led by Barbara Prymas and Joanne Lukasik, treated the volunteers to a feast of desserts and coffee, all served at the library which had been transformed into an elegant dining room, with cloth tablecloths and fine china and silverware. Afterward, award certificates were given along with a small gift.
So far this year the volunteers have logged well over 4300 hours of service. (This does not included the un-logged time put in by those doing things outside of the library) . Analytic catalogers have entered over 12,747 new records for the online catalog. Researchers handle nearly 50 requests a week (that’s about 2600 a year). Docents help visitors from all over Connecticut and, according to the guest book, at least 31 other states and 2 countries. Database volunteers have worked on Bible records (there are now 4 files of them), cemetery records and other vital records projects.
The library does not receive funds from any local, state, or federal agency. Its operating funds primarily come from the sale of memberships to the online Godfrey Scholar Program and through patron donations. Although it is a privately owned library, it is free and open to the public six days a week.
The purpose of the Godfrey Memorial Library is to promote the study of family history by inspiring individuals in all sectors of society to study their heritage and their own place in history; supporting educational activities that create enthusiasm for family research; making genealogical and historical resources available to all on a national and international level by continuing the expansion, modernization, and distribution of the collection of print, electronic manuscript and other information media as technology develops. The website – www.godfrey.org – offers subscribers a wide variety of genealogical databases which they access through their login information.
