Friends of Libraries
Friends of Libraries are non-profit, charitable groups formed to support libraries in communities. Friends of Libraries groups are often involved in fundraising, advocacy, volunteerism, public awareness campaigns, and literacy programs.
The County of Los Angeles Public Library reports having "...77 Friends of the Library groups with over 5,523 members."[1]
Friends of Libraries groups are supported by a division of the American Library Association, called United for Libraries USA. The division was formed in 2009, when "Friends of Libraries U.S.A. (FOLUSA) and the Association for Library Trustees and Advocates (ALTA) joined forces."[2]
Every year the Friends of Libraries groups have their very own national week of celebration! This time is used to promote within the community, to raise awareness, and to promote membership. This is also an excellent opportunity for libraries and Board of Trustees to recognize the Friends for their help and support of the library.
United for Libraries USA provides many resources for Friends of Libraries groups. Some of the resources offered include:[3]
- Book club suggestions
- Fact sheets that include tips on topics such as organizing a Friends Group, how to revitalize your Friends Group, and planning an author event
- A listserv to share ideas
- Free toolkits
- Contact information for existing State Friends Groups
See also
References
- ↑ "Friends of the Library". County of Los Angeles Public Library. Retrieved 2012-12-14.
- ↑ "The New Voice for America’s Libraries". United for Libraries. Retrieved 2012-12-14.
- ↑ United for Libraries Resources for Friends Groups http://www.ala.org/united/friends
External links
- United for Libraries
- Friends of the Library, New York Public Library
- Friends of the San Francisco Public Library