branches at the carnegie
About Us
almost free to all (afta)
Almost Free To All, Inc. is the name of our corporation which is a tax exempt, non-profit corporation dedicated to celebrating Arts, Culture, Education and Community Events. We are excited to host events as well as offer a beautiful space at affordable prices for community events and celebrations.
Our goal is to create a gracious center for the arts, culture, education and community events in the heart of Auburn where adults and youth can experience art exhibits of all ages, enjoy a variety of music in an intimate venue, listen to fascinating presentations and join in multi-generational events. We offer very affordable space in the historic building built by Andrew Carnegie in 1902 that has now transformed into a center of celebration and exploration for the whole community.
Our Beliefs and Core Values
- We believe that by bringing community members together through the arts creates a sense of belonging.
- We believe that celebrating life through music, art, culture and education helps create passion, respect and understanding for diversity and heritage.
- We believe that honoring the gifts and talents, skills and diversity of the community members brings value to the community and helps it grow into a vibrant, appreciative, unified group with a sense of admiration, sensitivity, kindness and compassion for all people of all ages and lifestyles.
- We believe that creating a venue to recognize and celebrate life will create a stronger community and assist in the positive development of social and emotional wellness of individuals, children and families.
Meet Our Leadership Team
April Maynard
President
April started volunteering for local arts organizations in the 1990s when the Arts Council of Placer County was housed in the Carnegie Library - she has been on the Auburn Arts Commission since 2011. April has been practicing law in Auburn since 1978, bringing the expertise of critical thinking, strategic planning, complex problem solving and understanding legal issues.
Diane Gilbert
Vice President
As the Human Resource Manager and Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of the Newcastle Elementary School District, Diane brings the expertise of an ambassador, visionary and adept anticipator. Diane has also had professional experience as an educator, aide to Mayor and City Council, Liaison to Santa Barbara Visual Art in Public Places, and assisted start-up companies to become successful. She is a member of the non-profit, community based, Sugar Plump Fairies. Diane received her BA in Liberal Arts and teaching credentials from Westmont College in Santa Barbara.
Philip L'Amoreaux
Secretary
A native of Placer County, Philip is a civil engineer in a consulting firm overseeing the construction management of pump stations and water treatment plants. He brings us expertise through his ability to work with project stakeholders such as architects, planners, citizens, contractors and elected officials. Phil’s
understanding of complex technical information will guide us in our decisions and timelines to accomplish the renovations we plan to implement. Phil received his BA in Civil Engineering and a MS in Civil Engineering from UC Davis.
Marcia Bice
Treasurer
Marcia is a Licensed Enrolled Agent, Insurance Agent, Financial Advisor and owner/operator of a Tax and Accounting Business in Newcastle. A Newcastle native since 1980, brings expertise in all things regarding taxes and finances, working with small businesses and impeccable organizational skills. She has been involved in a multitude of community activities including Treasurer of Newcastle Business Association and founding Board member of the Mandarin Festival. Marcia received her BA in Finance from San Jose State University.
Denice Williams
Board Member
Denice Williams is a self-employed business owner, licensed Realtor, and community leader with extensive experience in marketing, fundraising, event planning, and nonprofit leadership. Since 2009, she is consistently recognized as Executive Associate and a Master's Club member with the Placer Association of REALTORS®.
Her professional background includes digital and print marketing, social media strategy, and collaborative project leadership. She began her event planning career in Napa Valley's wine industry, where she served as a Wine Club Coordinator and was a founding member of the Wine Club Alliance Network.
Denice has dedicated many years to volunteer leadership, serving as President and Fundraising Coordinator of the Newcastle Elementary School Parent Teacher Club, co-creating the successful Night of Knights fundraiser, and volunteering as an Art Docent. She holds an Associate of Science degree in Behavioral and Social Science and is passionate about strengthening the community through arts, culture, and accessible creative spaces.
Carnegie Library Historical Designations
- California Register of Historic Places, "Point of Interest" - Designated September 11, 2000
- National Register of Historic Places, significance Architecture and Education - Designated March 31, 2011
- Listed on the official map of Carnegie Libraries Across America