Introduction

Every year, libraries across the country celebrate “Friends of the Library” week, a time dedicated to appreciating and promoting the vital role that Friends groups play in supporting their local libraries. This special week is not only an opportunity to recognize the tireless efforts of Friends but also a chance to strategize and plan activities that can benefit both the libraries and the communities they serve. In this blog post, we will explore some innovative ideas to help Friends of the Library groups make the most of this annual celebration.

Planning a Meeting

One of the best ways to kickstart Friends of the Library week is by organizing a meeting. This gathering can serve as a platform for members to discuss their goals, share ideas, and brainstorm strategies for the upcoming year. It’s a perfect time to reflect on past achievements and set new objectives. A meeting during Friends of the Library week can serve as a reminder of the group’s purpose and inspire members to get involved.

Membership Drive

A membership drive during Friends of the Library week can be incredibly effective. It’s an opportunity to attract new members who are passionate about supporting their local library. One clever approach is to set up a table outside the library, manned by a friendly member of the Friends group. At the table, display a poster showcasing the group’s achievements and mission, along with membership forms. To entice potential members, consider organizing a “bag” sale, allowing visitors to fill a grocery store plastic bag with books for a fixed, budget-friendly price, such as $5 or $10. This combination of a membership drive and a book sale can be much more manageable than hosting a full-scale weekend sale. It’s a convenient way to engage with the community, especially parents and library-goers who visit during the week.

Community Outreach

Community outreach is a fundamental aspect of Friends of the Library week. Your Friends group can engage with the local community in various ways. For instance, consider giving away books leftover from a sale. This not only helps declutter your storage but also introduces the joy of reading to new readers. Another effective approach is to collaborate with the library by placing posters at their events. This simple act of visibility can attract potential members and supporters who share your passion for literacy and education.

Book Drive for Local Branches

A book drive is another fantastic idea to consider during Friends of the Library week. Set up empty boxes along with a compelling poster at the library and other community spaces like grocery stores and local businesses. Clearly label the boxes, indicating that you’re collecting “new or gently used books” for Friends of the Library giveaways and book sales. This initiative not only helps stock your inventory for future sales but also promotes literacy in the community. To make it even more impactful, affix membership sign-up information to your poster, encouraging those who donate to become part of your Friends group.

Conclusion

Friends of the Library week is an excellent opportunity for Friends groups to come together, strategize, and make a positive impact on their local libraries and communities. Whether it’s planning meetings, hosting membership drives, engaging in community outreach, or conducting book drives, there are numerous ways to celebrate and contribute during this special week. By implementing these ideas, you can ensure that Friends of the Library week becomes a time of growth, outreach, and celebration for your group and your local library. Let’s work together to make every week a Friends of the Library week!