Clean out those closets, donate books

Hickory Hollow Towers residents seek mysteries, romance, inspiring works for libraryBy SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • sblackwood@tennessean.com • 259-8268 • October 10, 2008 Read a good book lately? The residents at Hickory Hollow Towers want something new to read, maybe a page-turner or a romance or a large print version of the Harry Potter books. The seniors at the retirement community off Mt. View Road, have had a library since 1980, but they've pretty much read all the books and are hoping for donations. Resident Pat Carl says the library is a popular place within the facility, even though it also has a hobby room, a piano and an exercise room. The library received a $2,000 state grant last year with the help of state Rep. Sherry Jones. "As far as I know, that's the only money we've ever received," Carl said. With that money, the residents, who operate the library themselves, were able to purchase many books. Also, said Carl, the residential facility's Activity Club purchased bookshelves, and many residents have donated books throughout the years. "We get a few outside donations," she said. But it has gotten to the point that donations have slowed down, and the library has used all of its grant money. Residents have read most of the books in the library, Carl said. Carl said the library is in need of large print books, books on tape, romance and mystery novels and inspirational books. She said it particularly needs newer releases. Hickory Hollow Towers, located off Mt. View Road near the former Texana Grill, is funded by Section 8. Residents there are low to middle income. Most residents also receive some other form of government assistance, Carl said. "To go buy a $5 book doesn't sound like much," Carl said. But, she added, "Most people don't have the funds." Resident Doris Walker, who assists Carl with library duties, said that would "buy a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk," which is likely to be a more pressing concern for most residents. Frances Ross, whose late husband Houston Ross helped develop Hickory Hollow Mall, is a regular library patron. Ross, 94, said Carl has been "a real asset" to the library, and she knows how hard Carl has worked to keep the library's collection exciting and up-to-date. "We hope it continues to get good books and grow," she said.