Monroe library collects for hurricane victims

Monroe - The Monroe Free Library has been receiving a steady stream of boxes of disposable diapers and wipes, which they are shipping directly to flood stricken areas in Mississippi. So far, five enormous cartons full of the necessary supplies have made their way directly into the hands of the distressed families and two more cartons are ready to go. Library Board of Trustees member Barbara Zerner is leading the drive and paying for the shipping of the materials. Currently, the Monroe Free Library is asking for only disposable diapers and baby wipes. Zerner hopes to have the Monroe Free Library join forces with an "Adopt a Town" fund raiser being planned for Sunday, Oct. 16, at the Captain's Table in Monroe, starting at 1 p.m. and featuring Cajun delicacies like gumbo, jambalaya and other Southern treats. There will be music and the event will take place rain or shine. Ticket price is still being determined. Coordinated by Dr. Steven Pavia and M.J. Goff of Monroe, the event will enable our community to focus their efforts on a specific region in the devastated area. By working with officials at the site, the coordinators hope to gather donations of the goods most desperately needed. "It starts out as a little spark and it becomes a big project," Pavia said. Disposable diapers and wipes can be placed in a special container near the circulation desk of the Monroe Free Library, which is located at 44 Millpond Parkway. For more information, call the library at 783-4411.