Friends of the Library
A Friends of the Library group consists of people who care about libraries and who are interested in promoting the welfare and growth of the Library. The County of Los Angeles Public Library currently has 77 Friends of the Library groups with a total membership of over 5,523 . Friends of the Library members join together to:
- promote goodwill and support by the community for the Library
- stimulate public awareness of Library needs
- seek out sources of cultural and educational programs for the Library
In their support of the local library, these groups may undertake such activities as:
- providing program assistance for the local library (e.g., speakers demonstrations, performers, etc.)
- recruiting volunteers and serving as volunteers
- raising funds from local sources to support activities of the local library
- contributing to the Los Angeles County Public Library Foundation to promote Library services
- participating actively as individuals in the support of legislative action on behalf of the Library
Demand for Library services rises in proportion to population increases and community changes. These demands are far in excess of funds normally available for Library operation. The Library's responsibility in meeting the complex needs of the community necessitates active support by the community in carrying out its multi-faceted informational, educational, cultural, historical, and recreational role.
Friends of the Library may, therefore, be relied upon for assistance with the Library's major undertakings: in sponsoring programs in the public interest and in working with schools, philanthropic and service organizations, and local clubs.
Friends cooperate with and communicate regularly with the Community Library Managers and Library Administration. With the guidance of the Regional Administrator, the Volunteer Program Services Director and the County Librarian they serve as the Library's promoters and supporters. The Community Library Manager and Regional Administrator will assist them by interpreting County of Los Angeles Public Library policies and procedures.
They hold business meetings, governed by their own constitution or by-laws, elect officers, appoint working committes, may provide for informal exchange of views and opinions, and may issue bulletins or newsletters relating to their group activities. The Friends of the Library are self-organized, self-supported, maintain their own financial records, utilize their own membership for work related to their activities, and print their own materials.
Each group is encouraged to join the Friends of the Library USA (FOLUSA).
Local Friends have the opportunity to share information on activities at the County of Los Angeles Public Library Friends Exchange. This meeting of Friends groups, allow members to exchange successful ideas and common interests.
Membership is open to all who are interested in helping to enhance public library service in the community. By-laws of the organization specify dues and officers within the organizations. The Community Library Manager works closely with the group as an ex-officio member.
Activities of the Friends of the Libraries center around the support provided to the local Public Library, including volunteer work assisting the professional staff, sponsoring programs, lobbying for and supporting legislation essential to the Library services, hosting tours, providing refreshments at Library events, holding book sales, golf tournaments, and other fund rasing events, etc.
The main thrust of any Friends of the Library activity is to focus attention and promote awareness of the Library within the community acting independently of library staff in the accomplishment of these goals.
Friends Groups with Web Sites:
