The City of Onalaska Public Library held its second annual Onalaska Library Auxiliary Cookie Exchange fundraiser on Sept. 25, a public event to acknowledge volunteer help, and recruit new volunteers.
“Thank you all for showing up – and showing out! I’m so glad you’re here. Not long ago, a friend asked me, ‘Why do you keep doing this?’ My answer was simple. Because it’s fun. But more importantly, it’s how I connect with my community,” Library Director Sherry Brecheen said.
“You see, I believe the library is more than shelves of books. It’s a place where we share learning, creativity, and a love for community. Programs like this one aren’t just about what happens here – they’re meant to inspire you. Maybe you’ll host something similar in your home, church, or school.
“If you noticed, our decorations at the cookie exchange didn’t all match – pumpkins, Christmas, hot chocolate, even a little gardening! Could it look more Instagram-worthy? Sure. But the point isn’t perfection. The point is to show there are many ways to create an event. And this was not really about the cookies. It was about you – about making memories, sharing joy, and inviting others into our lives,” Brecheen said.
“This idea carries over to other things too. Take Storytime, for example. You don’t need a fancy setup to read with your kids. Just borrow books here for free, cozy up, and share that time together. It not only builds strong readers, but also strong family connections. And when children feel that they can come to us with small things, they’ll be more likely to come later with big things.
“Now, I’m not here to preach – I’m here to thank you. None of this happens without the community’s support. Your donations, your time, your ideas, even your feedback – all of it matters to me,” she said.
“This past year, you helped us install an interactive wall for kids and launch new programs like Friday Morning Family Game Time. After Thanksgiving, we’ll hold our biggest fundraiser – Christmas Wrapping – where you can drop off gifts for us to wrap. It’s fun, it’s useful, and it keeps programs like these going all year.
“So I invite you to keep investing in the Library Auxiliary. You’re not just supporting the library – you’re building the future of our community. Thank you for being here, for celebrating with us, and for reminding me why I do what I do. Together, we’re creating more than events – we’re creating connection, inspiration, and community,” Brecheen said.
The City of Onalaska Public Library is located at 372 FM 356 #103 inside the Onalaska City Hall. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Fridays. It is closed daily for lunch from noon until 1 p.m. For additional information, call 936-646-2665 or email librarian@cityofonalaska.us.
