SOUTH POINT - The sixties pop tune said "I get by with a little help from my friends."

This is never more true than when talking about government-funded agencies these days. With government dollars scarce,

the help of friends can mean a lot. Case in point: the Friends of the Library, whose mission is to support the Briggs Lawrence Library's Southern Branch in South Point. Branch Manager Alda Wagner said the organization's support is both financial and moral, and its benefits are immeasurable.

"They're absolutely wonderful," Wagner said. "I don't know what we'd do without them. Anything we've needed, they've gotten for us."

Friends of the Library began its mission shortly after the Southern Branch opened in 1993. Organizers wanted a fund raising venue that would help purchase some nice extras as well as some of the library's necessities.

Over the years, Friends of the Library has bought the marquee

and lamp post that adorn the outside of the building, as well as book shelves.

Each October the organization has a book sale, bake sale and "white elephant" sale that all raise money for library needs throughout the year. Friends of the Library also decorates the branch's Christmas tree each year. The club also organizes open houses, provides refreshments for visiting speakers and attends the library's special events.

There are approximately 10 active members in the group. Friends of the Library President Bonnie Schisler said she wishes more South Point residents would get involved.

"Everyone is welcome to join," Schisler said. "We need more young people but it seems these days, everybody is working so much. But if we could get more young people that would be great."

Those interested in joining Friends of the Library may contact the Southern Branch at 377-2288.