A new issue of PAGES, the newsletter for friends of the New Castle County Libraries, is hitting the branches over the Labor Day holiday weekend with early news of a new project.
The fall newsletter announces a first-time project called ‘Prom’iere, with county libraries collecting formal dresses for a giveaway as prom time nears next year.
“Our library staff suggested this project, which we think is a great idea,” County Executive Thomas P. Gordon said. “Donated dresses could make beautiful prom memories for young women who can’t afford to buy something to wear.”
The idea was suggested by Woodlawn Library Manager Tanya Moye and Library Specialist Kim Kull, who saw other projects to help provide prom dresses.
“We’re always trying to find ways to reach the teens in our neighborhood,” Tull said. “This seemed like a positive way to get them into the library.”
County libraries wanted to announce the ‘Prom’iere project in early September, as many people start to go through their wardrobes for the change of seasons as well as planning and shopping for what they will wear for events throughout the holidays, said Sophia Hanson, general manager of the Department of Community Services, which includes the library system.
Donation dresses may be new or gently used and all sizes are needed, Hanson said. Organizers ask that owners wash or dry clean any that have been worn and request that all dresses be donated on hangers.
Starting Jan. 2, dresses may be dropped off at all county branches during regular library hours.
Details of the ‘Prom’iere giveaway will be announced as prom season nears, Hanson said.
The fall issue of PAGES also includes information about free, family fun activities for the holidays, articles about recent programs and an announcement of “Food for Fines,” the libraries’ second annual week of forgiving overdue fines and collecting food donations for the needy.
For an online version of PAGES – along with a list of library branches, their locations and hours -- visit http://nccde.org/287/Branches.