Chers amis,
As this crazy year 2020 comes to an end, like many of you, I take time to pause and reflect on the dystopian year we have been having.
The health situation, the confinement, and all the restrictions are taxing and have changed how we do the simplest of things – both in our personal and professional lives. In my case, I have shuffled things around the house to create working spaces for my kids and myself (including a desk and computer in the kitchen!); I have increased the frequency of my communications with my family on the other side of the Atlantic; I have reconnected with friends that I only had social media interactions with; and I adopted two “Covid puppies” who bring much love and… emotional therapy to our house.
Another major impact of 2020 has been for many a reassessment of our priorities, and a close look at what does bring us joy. I find that seeing some colleagues in person, outdoors, masked and at a safe distance, does wonders to alleviate the zoom-out effect. Same goes for infrequent visits to the coffee shop; a wave of a hand to a familiar (half-)face; a brief conversation on a sidewalk; … Simple things that I realize I now crave.
I love the French Library and I miss it. I know I’m not alone, as you all have expressed in so many ways the same feelings, and how important a role we play in your lives right now, whether it be through our online classes or our cultural events. We hear you and we constantly try to adapt what we do to provide you with education and entertainment, while giving you opportunities, still, to “meet” with our shared community. Supporting small businesses and institutions that you love is key, right now.
That is why I am reaching out for your financial support. I know these are difficult times for many people and if you cannot give, I understand. If you can give, your support is critical if the French Library is to sustain its activities and the work of our exceptional staff during this period of financial stress.
We miss you and we are confident that we will see the light at the end of the tunnel soon. We are here for you now and we are true to our optimistic outlook, making plans for the future. We have started our renovation, which is very exciting and will make our beloved Center so much better!
When we all are ready to come back to 53 Marlborough Street, we will absolutely célébrer, together with you. We can’t wait for that day! In between, do know that all of you are very much in our thoughts.
Wishing you a safe and healthy holiday season,
Barbara Bouquegneau
Executive Director
Donate
P.S. If you prefer to send in a check, please use our temporary mailing address: P.O. Box 610 Winchester, MA 01890. If you have questions, please email joyce@frenchlibrary.org
As this crazy year 2020 comes to an end, like many of you, I take time to pause and reflect on the dystopian year we have been having.
The health situation, the confinement, and all the restrictions are taxing and have changed how we do the simplest of things – both in our personal and professional lives. In my case, I have shuffled things around the house to create working spaces for my kids and myself (including a desk and computer in the kitchen!); I have increased the frequency of my communications with my family on the other side of the Atlantic; I have reconnected with friends that I only had social media interactions with; and I adopted two “Covid puppies” who bring much love and… emotional therapy to our house.Another major impact of 2020 has been for many a reassessment of our priorities, and a close look at what does bring us joy. I find that seeing some colleagues in person, outdoors, masked and at a safe distance, does wonders to alleviate the zoom-out effect. Same goes for infrequent visits to the coffee shop; a wave of a hand to a familiar (half-)face; a brief conversation on a sidewalk; … Simple things that I realize I now crave.
I love the French Library and I miss it. I know I’m not alone, as you all have expressed in so many ways the same feelings, and how important a role we play in your lives right now, whether it be through our online classes or our cultural events. We hear you and we constantly try to adapt what we do to provide you with education and entertainment, while giving you opportunities, still, to “meet” with our shared community. Supporting small businesses and institutions that you love is key, right now.
That is why I am reaching out for your financial support. I know these are difficult times for many people and if you cannot give, I understand. If you can give, your support is critical if the French Library is to sustain its activities and the work of our exceptional staff during this period of financial stress.
We miss you and we are confident that we will see the light at the end of the tunnel soon. We are here for you now and we are true to our optimistic outlook, making plans for the future. We have started our renovation, which is very exciting and will make our beloved Center so much better!
When we all are ready to come back to 53 Marlborough Street, we will absolutely célébrer, together with you. We can’t wait for that day! In between, do know that all of you are very much in our thoughts.
Wishing you a safe and healthy holiday season,
Barbara Bouquegneau
Executive Director
Donate
P.S. If you prefer to send in a check, please use our temporary mailing address: P.O. Box 610 Winchester, MA 01890. If you have questions, please email joyce@frenchlibrary.org
Barbara Bouquegneau
President and Executive Director
Barbara has worked at the French Library for more than 20 years. Barbara has represented the Center and Alliance Française of Boston throughout the years and has most recently been appointed vice-president of the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA. She is committed to pursuing the extraordinary mission of the French Library and believes that the Francophone world is worth exploring in all its different cultures.
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