NATIONAL FRIENDS OF LIBRARIES WEEK
National Friends of Libraries Week promotes groups who support libraries across the country. Focusing on the third week in October each year, the observance provides the opportunity for groups to increase awareness about membership opportunities, their goals, projects and more.
Library friends groups help support local libraries in a variety of ways. As a volunteer organization, their programs raise money for library needs. They also help keep the public informed through displays, engage youth and teens, and so much more.
The week celebrates the contributions of friends groups across the nation. Their dedication to their local libraries leaves a lasting and positive impact on their libraries and their communities. In fact, some libraries were established through the efforts of friends groups. Not only do friends groups support local libraries, but they also contribute to growing academic and scientific libraries.
HOW TO OBSERVE #FriendsOfLibrariesWeek
Visit your local library and volunteer. While visiting the library, learn more about programs offered through library friends groups. Support library friends groups. Find out how to become a member. Donate to their programs and support their efforts. Libraries that are supported by a friends group, consider hosting an event. Thank your friends group and help promote their membership, too!
Give them a shout out on social media by using #FriendsOfLibrariesWeek.
NATIONAL FRIENDS OF LIBRARIES WEEK HISTORY
Since 2005, the American Library Association has promoted National Friends of Library Week to recognize the dedication of friends groups across the nation.