"Handwritten Notes Offer Nice Personal Tounch" 

Faith Popcorn, a celebrated “pop” (excuse the pun) futurist, forecasts that for the vast majority of us who are interconnected by computers and faxes, the norm for communicating the written word is by keyboard. Penmanship skills have degenerated to such an extent that a beautifully penned note or letter is such a rarity that it is prized by the recipient. What can be more touching than a handwritten note of congratulations in joyful times or one of condolence and compassion in a time of sorrow and difficulty? An expensive printed card with a trite message never “says the very best”. It’s only when one receives a handwritten note that one knows that the sender really cares.

To assist the writer in composing such notes, the Library has several new books which offer expert guidance and samples for the writer to study. Never are we more concerned about getting it right than when writing to one who has suffered a loss. In her book, “My Deepest Sympathies, Meaningful Sentiments for Times of Loss plus a Guide to Eulogies”, letter-writing guru Florence Isaacs guides the reader through the intricacies of offering comfort and support in a short yet meaningful note that will long be remembered.

Isaacs explains that the individual circumstances help determine what’s appropriate to say in a sympathy note and she provides specific techniques for a wide range of relationships—from the death of a co-worker’s spouse to the loss of a friend’s elderly parent. She even includes thoughtful words to be written to someone whose pet has died.

In her book, “When Words Matter Most: Thoughtful Words and Deeds to Express Just the Right Thing at Just the Right Time”, the author, Robyn Spizman, allays the common fear people have of appearing foolish or inadequate when they want their words to communicate how they feel.

A new book, “Condolences and Eulogies: Finding the Perfect Words”, by Bettyanne Gillette offers guidance for diverse situations, with sample letters and notes to draw on, so that it’s easy to strike the appropriate tone.

Other books on letter writing include: “Writing Personal Notes & Letters” by the editors of Victoria Magazine; “Someone Cares, an Encyclopedia of Letter Writing” by Guideposts Books; “Great Letters for Every Occasion” by Rosalie Maggio; “Writing Thank-You Notes” by Gabrielle Goodwin; and, “Everyday Letters for Busy People” by Debra Hart May.

Recent donations to the Library Foundation include memorials from Mr. and Mrs. Robert Mead and members of the Book Review Club in honor of Al Tucek; a donation from Jacquilyn Alfson in memory of Herman Waak; a memorial from La Vern Malmstrom in honor of Helen Torczon; and a donation from Mrs. Thomas Bernstein.