The Friends of the Garnett Library has been named the Volunteer Group of the Year by the Missouri State University (MSU) Alumni Association.

Representatives of the group were presented with the award during a special dinner and awards ceremony April 21 at MSU’s William H. Darr Agricultural Center in Springfield.

The award honors alumni who have made extraordinary efforts to advance the reach and impact of Missouri State University. It celebrates individuals or groups who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership or service to the Missouri State community.

“We’re thrilled that the Friends of the Garnett Library has been recognized by the Missouri State University Alumni Association for its efforts to support and enhance the Garnett Library through the years,” MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster said.

“I cannot express enough the gratitude we, as a university, have for the many hours of work the group’s members have put in to raise funds to supplement the library’s resources,” he added. “Without their unwavering support, the Garnett Libarary would not be able to provide the services that it does to our students, faculty, staff and the community.”

More about the Friends

Organized in 1992 to enhance and supplement the renovation of the library on the Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) campus, the Friends of the Garnett Library has been a strategic partner in future projects and growth of the library, officials said.

Over the past 30 years, members have raised awareness of and advocated for the library’s needs, securing funds to purchase more than $450,000 worth of books, resource materials, computers, audiovisual equipment, display cases, and most recently, furnishings for a study area and mobile compact shelving.

The group’s current fundraisers and events include fall and spring fashion shows, a chili supper during MSU-WP homecoming activities, and daffodil and cheesecake sales.

Its membership has grown from 34 members in its inaugural year to 91 members today.

For more information about Friends of the Garnett Library and how you can join, visit the organization’s website or call 417-255-7940.

For more information about the Missouri State University Alumni Association and the Bears of Distinction Awards, visit Alumni.MissouriState.edu.