Library Luncheon Committee: Joan Pursley, Liping Cai, Fred van Naerssen, Dianna Lucas, Meg Galloway and Deborah Diehl
Library Volunteer Luncheon
The spirit of community and appreciation was on full display as Friends of the Library (FOL) hosted a festive luncheon honoring the dedicated volunteers who keep the library thriving week after week.
Held on Tuesday, April 21, the event celebrated a group whose impact is anything but small—library volunteers collectively contribute more than 60 hours of service each week, ensuring that this treasured resource remains vibrant and welcoming for all.
FOL President Dianna Lucas opened the luncheon with a heartfelt tribute to Gil and Sondra Clifton, longtime volunteers whose recent departure from the Ranch leaves behind a legacy of commitment and care. Their contributions set the tone for an afternoon centered on gratitude and recognition.
Library Sub-committee Chair Ralph Berry followed with remarks underscoring just how essential volunteers are to the library’s success. “There wouldn’t be a library without them,” he noted, highlighting the vital role they play in every aspect of operations. Berry also shared exciting news: the library will commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States with its first-ever Reading Challenge—an initiative designed to engage readers and celebrate the nation’s rich literary heritage.
Guests enjoyed a lively and relaxed atmosphere, complete with a delicious taco bar, refreshing beverages, and an assortment of brownies and cookies that kept spirits high.
Adding a literary twist to the festivities, Fred van Naerseen presented a compilation of volunteers’ favorite books from 2025. Among the most popular selections were The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon and The Rose Code by Kate Quinn, both earning widespread praise from the group.
The afternoon’s entertainment continued with an interactive game led by Joan Pursley and Fred van Naerseen. Participants were challenged to match the opening lines of 12 books to their correct titles—a task that proved both fun and surprisingly tricky. Rising to the challenge, Deborah Diehl and Lorraine Wilson emerged as top winners, each correctly identifying all 12 books.
Throughout the event, excitement built as Dianna Lucas, assisted by Deborah Diehl, conducted raffle drawings for an array of impressive prizes. Winners took home gift certificates to popular spots like Wildhorse Grill, Tom Thumb, and Barnes & Noble, along with event tickets provided through the HOA and beautifully crafted handmade pens.
By the end of the afternoon, one thing was clear: the luncheon was more than just a gathering—it was a heartfelt celebration of the volunteers who give their time, energy, and passion to sustain the library. Their dedication continues to make the library not just a place for books, but a cornerstone of the community.
Held on Tuesday, April 21, the event celebrated a group whose impact is anything but small—library volunteers collectively contribute more than 60 hours of service each week, ensuring that this treasured resource remains vibrant and welcoming for all.
FOL President Dianna Lucas opened the luncheon with a heartfelt tribute to Gil and Sondra Clifton, longtime volunteers whose recent departure from the Ranch leaves behind a legacy of commitment and care. Their contributions set the tone for an afternoon centered on gratitude and recognition.
Library Sub-committee Chair Ralph Berry followed with remarks underscoring just how essential volunteers are to the library’s success. “There wouldn’t be a library without them,” he noted, highlighting the vital role they play in every aspect of operations. Berry also shared exciting news: the library will commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States with its first-ever Reading Challenge—an initiative designed to engage readers and celebrate the nation’s rich literary heritage.
Guests enjoyed a lively and relaxed atmosphere, complete with a delicious taco bar, refreshing beverages, and an assortment of brownies and cookies that kept spirits high.
Adding a literary twist to the festivities, Fred van Naerseen presented a compilation of volunteers’ favorite books from 2025. Among the most popular selections were The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon and The Rose Code by Kate Quinn, both earning widespread praise from the group.
The afternoon’s entertainment continued with an interactive game led by Joan Pursley and Fred van Naerseen. Participants were challenged to match the opening lines of 12 books to their correct titles—a task that proved both fun and surprisingly tricky. Rising to the challenge, Deborah Diehl and Lorraine Wilson emerged as top winners, each correctly identifying all 12 books.
Throughout the event, excitement built as Dianna Lucas, assisted by Deborah Diehl, conducted raffle drawings for an array of impressive prizes. Winners took home gift certificates to popular spots like Wildhorse Grill, Tom Thumb, and Barnes & Noble, along with event tickets provided through the HOA and beautifully crafted handmade pens.
By the end of the afternoon, one thing was clear: the luncheon was more than just a gathering—it was a heartfelt celebration of the volunteers who give their time, energy, and passion to sustain the library. Their dedication continues to make the library not just a place for books, but a cornerstone of the community.