Dear Editor:
I want to respond for myself to an effusive letter from Lucio Fernandez published in Letters to the Editor recently (The UC Reporter).
First, it must be not be assumed that his public statements are endorsed by all the members of the Board of UC Public Library Friends, Inc. Our Board is guided by parliamentary procedure in which majority vote prevails and not the exclusive voice of any member.
Second, if appreciation is given, let it be generous. Praise should be afforded to all staff in our libraries from the Director to the maintenance man. We cannot overlook their devoted, diligent, self-effacing work. This includes the Board of Trustees, and our Mayor who supports our library. As public servants they do good work quietly without drawing attention or seeking adulation every time a noble deed is done. Mr. Karabin epitomizes this tradition.
Volunteerism has its own intrinsic rewards. All of us in the not-for-profit sector work in part, from an altruistic spirit—sacrifices are sometimes done; sometimes necessary; no single individual can lay claim to this. We do err grievously when we fail to congratulate everyone connected to our libraries. We risk trampling on the feelings of those who are just as worthy of our blessing and admiration and recognition but who are not recipients of a mayoral proclamation.
Sincerely,
R. Anthony Squire
Union City, New Jersey