WALHALLA — The President’s Volunteer Service Award and USA Freedom Corps have recognized the Oconee County Friends of the Library in appreciation of the group’s commitment to strengthening the nation and for making a difference through volunteer service.

The Oconee County Friends of the Library was organized in 1986 exclusively for support purposes. It is an organization devoted to the Oconee County Library System, which is comprised of four libraries located in Walhalla, Westminster, Salem and Seneca.

“America has a long and proud tradition of volunteer service. Now more than ever, volunteers are renewing their commitment to helping others and making new connections that bring us closer together as families, as neighbors, as communities and as a nation,” said Curtis R. Rogers, communications director for the South Carolina State Library.

“Recognizing and honoring volunteers sets a standard for service, encourages a sustained commitment to civic participation, and inspires others to make service a central part of their lives,” Curtis said, in making the announcement.

The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation was established in 2003 to recognize the valuable contributions volunteers are making in our communities and encourage more people to serve.

Any individual, family or group can receive Presidential recognition for their annual commitment to volunteer service. In addition, individuals who complete 4,000 or more hours of volunteer service over the course of their lifetime will be recognized with the President’s Call to Service Award.