Celebrate Friends of Libraries Week

Contact: Rachel Cook

Gainesville, Fla. – The Alachua County Library District celebrates National Friends of Libraries Week Oct. 17-23 by thanking Friends of the Library for their many contributions to our public library system. 

Friends of the Library (FOL) has provided more than $5.4 million to the Library District since 1986 when the Alachua County Library District became an independent special taxing district, contributions that fund exceptional programming, in-demand materials, and remodel projects at branches. The all-volunteer organization raises money at popular biannual book sales at the Book House, 430-B N. Main St. The first in-person book sale since 2019 will be held Oct. 23-27.

In fiscal year 2020-2021 alone, FOL provided more than $25,000 for local library programs, materials, and services. FOL has funded Quiet Reading Rooms at multiple branches, providing patrons with a peaceful space to read, study, and work. The nonprofit has also empowered staff members to continue their education with more than $351,000 in scholarships. In addition to supporting the Library District, FOL provides grants to nonprofits and educational groups that enrich the cultural life of Alachua County.

You can support FOL and your local public library system with your donations, time, and dollars. Here’s how: 

The Alachua County Library District also benefits from the support of Friends groups for the Micanopy, Alachua, and High Springs branches. These organizations enrich our communities and branches in many ways, including tutoring programs, volunteer hours, and donations.

For more details or to schedule an interview, please contact Rachel Cook at 352-334-3909 or rcook@aclib.us.

By Rachel on October 18, 2021