The Purpose of the Friends of the Nashville Public Library
The purpose of the Friends of the Library (FOL) is to help raise funds to purchase equipment and materials for the Nashville Public Library. It is a multifaceted group of dedicated volunteers who share a common belief that a good public library is a valuable asset, which must be nourished and supported. Ideas for speakers and programs, as well as equipment needs for the library, are discussed at meetings.
Why Join the Friends?
Benefits of being a member of FOL include a quarterly newsletter, sponsorship and participation in the planning of events such as lectures and demonstrations, occasional group excursions, and free admission to the book sales on preview nights. Lifetime members also receive 10% off total purchases at book sales.
The FOL sponsor a spring and a fall book sale as fundraisers. Help is always needed to sort books and help with the sales. Volunteer opportunities are available such as helping with the summer reading program, serving refreshments at evening events, and assisting at special fundraisers.
Book reviewers are always needed to review books for the Let’s Read, Reading for Kids, and Reading for Christian Living columns in The Nashville News. In exchange for published reviews, the books, valued at over $1,000 annually, are donated to the library.
Events Held in 2019:
- A wine-tasting by Karen Droste, All-Mart Wines & Spirits, Nashville
- Family Reading Night in November in partnership with the local schools
- Friends of the Library Christmas dinner and entertainment
- Two book sales–one in May and one in September
- Movie nights and/or movie mornings throughout the year with soda and free popcorn
Contributions by the Friends in 2018:
- $265 for annual movie license
- $500 for Summer Reading Program
- Book Page subscription
- Gift cards/prizes for programs
- Program refreshments
- Books donated to the library after reviews in The Nashville News
Membership in the Friends
Membership is open to individuals, families and businesses interested in promoting the materials, services and programs of the Nashville Public Library. Members are encouraged but not required to attend meetings, which are held on the third Saturday of the month at the Nashville Public Library, unless otherwise noted. Call the Nashville Public Library at (618) 327-3827 for more information about joining the Friends.