Friends of Libraries groups have their very own national week of celebration! SJCPLS will be celebrating our seven Friends of the Library groups as part of the 17th annual National Friends of Libraries Week, October 16-22, 2022. Through hard work and advocacy of the Friends of the Library, they help promote our libraries as a cornerstone of community education, providing opportunities for everyone to engage in the joy of life-long learning and connect with thoughts and ideas worldwide.

The Friends, the foundation of community support for the St. Johns County Public Library System, understand the critical importance of well-funded libraries and advocate to ensure that our libraries get the resources needed to provide a wide variety of services to all ages. The Friends provide outstanding fundraising assistance to enhance our libraries and bookmobiles. In 2021, the Friends donated over $112,515 to supplement the library’s budget. These funds are used for many items that the County does not provide. For example, did you know the Friends fund all program costs such as purchasing movies for film series, craft supplies for art demonstrations, and refreshments? In addition, their support funds author visits, musical events, and youth programming. Our Friends make a difference in our library collections, funding the purchase of books, CDs, and DVDs for our libraries. Currently, over 1,380 community members contribute annually to the Friends. The gift of their time and commitment to our libraries sets an example for how volunteerism leads to positive civic engagement and the betterment of our community.

We could not do what we do without the continued support of our Friends members. This October, consider joining the Friends of the Library. Visit the Friends of the Library page on our website and become part of a fun group that makes a real difference. With six branch locations throughout St. Johns County and two travelling bookmobiles, you are sure to find a library close by. Check us out!