Friends of Libraries
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Friends of Libraries are non-profit charitable, groups formed to support libraries in their communities. Associations which support the development of Friends of Libraries groups, and the work they do on behalf of their libraries, include:
Friends of Canadian Libraries FOCAL provides a national support and resource network to assist in the formation and promotion of Friends of Libraries groups throughout the library community in Canada. Friends of Libraries are volunteers acting collectively and independently to preserve, promote and strengthen library services in harmony with library management and policies.
Friends of Libraries Australia The aim of FOLA is to support the important work being achieved by Friends groups nationally on behalf of libraries and the service they provide, recognizing that libraries have obligations to administrative and funding authorities as well as to their user community.
Friends of Libraries U.S.A. The mission of FOLUSA is to motivate and support state and local library support groups across the country in their efforts to preserve and strengthen libraries, and to create awareness and appreciation of library services.
The Library Campaign - United Kingdom The aim of The Library Campaign is to advance the lifelong education of the public by the promotion, support, assistance and improvement of libraries through the activities of friends and user groups.
Association websites are resource-rich tools to help members and non-members communicate, network, and share expertise. The websites contain newsletters, conference programming, regional meetings and workshops as well as valuable resources to assist members and non-members in learning how to support libraries. The associations publish newsletters for members, sponsor conference programming, and host regional meetings. Some maintain listservs for members to discuss issues, share news and network.
Friends of libraries in the public library sector are involved in some or all of the following activities:
- Fundraising
- Advocacy
- Volunteerism
- Programming/Special events
- Community Support
- Public awarensss
- Partnership with community groups
- Literacy promotion
Friends of libraries in special libraries, colleges or universities may be established as a Foundation, or may define membership based on levels of financial contribution. In these sectors “Friends” may be less likely to run regular book sales or bake sales, and more likely to advocate or campaign for corporate sponsorships.
Friends of the Library websites may be found through national associations, as noted, or via the LibDex website.
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