MARS — Libraries can serve as a sanctuary, a place where people can go and not be bothered.

That's how David Hudac described the Mars Library.

Hudac is president of the 10-member board of trustees for the Mars Library Association.

The association oversees library operations, sets policies, generates fundraising efforts and gathers information on community needs.

Hudac, who has been president for five years, said he was drawn to the association by his passion for civic work and a love of reading and education — a love instilled by his family.

A Gibsonia native, Hudac comes from a close family with six brothers. They all work for the FBC Chemical, a corporation founded by Hudac's father, Lad Hudac, in 1968.

Hudac's family values are reflected in his work with the library.

Hudac and the association have worked with the library staff to create sections aimed toward children, young adults and senior citizens.

"Libraries are so much more than books," Hudac said. "They are an integral part of the community."

The Mars library offers tax help for senior citizens and has movie nights for young adults.

It added the Agnes Hudac Children's Library, dedicated to Hudac's mother. The funds for the project were donated primarily by FBC.

The addition was phase two of a three-phase, $200,000 renovation, paid primarily through donations rather than state funding.

The association works with Adams and Middlesex townships and Mars and Valencia to help support the library.

That work will continue because the state cut funding to libraries by 20 percent this year, and Hudac expects at least another 10 percent cut in 2011, forcing the association to rely more heavily on fundraising efforts.

"The state keeps pulling back funding, but libraries are busier than ever," Hudac said.

The library had more than 5,000 people visit in June, and circulation is up 10 percent from a year ago, according to Mary Jo Simons, library director.

The growing number of patrons can be seen as evidence that libraries are not being made obsolete by technology.

"Everyone thought that libraries will be antiquated by the Internet," Hudac said, "but that is not so."

The increase in the number of patrons has increased demand for fundraising, and Hudac is confident that the association's dedication will aid that effort.

He said, "If you believe in what you are doing and express your vision, the public will support you."

Hudac's vision consists of completing the third phase of the renovation plan by doing exterior work and maintenance in the next two years, establishing a closer link with schools, expanding fundraising, and doing strategic planning to assess the needs of residents.

As Hudac walks through the library, showing the updated technology and features, he beams with pride.

"The future is bright for libraries," he said.

For information about fundraisers and library programs, call 724-625-9048 or visit bcfls.org/mars.