Resources for Friends Groups
Friends of the Library groups are non-profit, charitable groups formed to support libraries in their communities. They are a dedicated group of volunteers committed to keeping libraries great. Friends are involved in fundraising, advocacy, volunteerism, public awareness campaigns, literacy programs, and more. They are separate from the libraries they support and made up of volunteers. Members consist of individuals who use libraries, people who organize library fundraisers, and influential community members who help govern libraries nationwide.
Within state library associations across the United States, roughly half have divisions like FLS that assist Friends organizations. The Friends of Libraries Section is directed by a 13-member Board of officers and members at large who represent the geographic diversity of the Empire State. The Board spans Friends groups from the Southern Tier to the Adirondack Mountains, from western NYS to the Hudson Valley. Volunteers include librarians who support the efforts of Friends organizations as part of their job responsibilities, community volunteers who are active in the Friends group in their home library, and retired librarians, many of whom have served NYLA in key leadership positions throughout their professional careers.
Are you thinking of starting a Friends group, reorganizing or revitalizing the one you have, or a seasoned group looking for some fresh ideas? Look no further! United for Libraries offers a wealth of ideas and resources for Friends groups of all types, sizes, and level of activity. Explore the links in the menu to the left under "Friends Groups" and throughout the rest of the United for Libraries website.
