The Altoona Area Public Library Board of Directors kicked off its annual fundraiser Oct. 22.
The 2008 theme is ''Keep Us Green and Growing,' and the goal is to raise $30,000.
In the spirit of conservation and in an effort to recycle, the library wants to help the community find time- and money-saving ways to lower the carbon foot print.
The library will present a ''Getting Green' mini-fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and it will offer offer sturdy tote bags or wild flower seed bookmarks with every $5 donation.
Patrons can score a gold card for a donation of $120 or more.
Libraries are busier in times of economic instability than during economic highs, providing free entertainment, education, recreation and help with many home improvement projects and craft ideas.
People come to get help looking for work or finding information about where to turn for help.
The library recent sent out a mailing for the patron appeal, and North American Communications, Duncansville, was a supporting sponsor of the mailings.
