Overview
The Friends of the Newburyport Public Library is a dedicated group of volunteer members who care deeply for the mission and well being of the Newburyport Public Library. Through a variety of volunteer activities, they promote awareness of and encourage public support for the Library. FOL members are library users, library lovers, and library supporters.
History of Our Organization
The “Association of Library Friends” was formed in December 1939 by Librarian Irving Cole and about 30 Friends. The first regular meeting was held in the Reading Room on October 24, 1940. Former mayor and local businessman Edward Molin became president in 1991, and under his guidance, the Friends raised more than $1.5 million for the Library’s building addition and restoration.
Our Mission
The mission of the Friends of the Newburyport Public Library is to:
- Provide direct financial assistance to the Newburyport Public Library for programs and other needs that are not covered by its city-funded operating budget or the resources of the Library Board of Directors;
- Foster community awareness of the Library and its resources through the Friends’ own programs, initiatives and activities;
- Advocate for the library at the local level for both public and private support;
- Receive and manage donor gifts and bequests.
About Our Board
The Board of Directors organizes and sets the course and initiatives of the Friends of the Library. It is a committed group of local volunteers with diverse backgrounds and experience who come together for the benefit of the Library. Board members serve two- year terms and are nominated and elected by a board vote.
Board Members
Stacey Brandon, President
Rita Moore, Vice President/Assistant Treasurer
Dick Aiken, Treasurer
Diantha Brown, Corresponding Secretary
Deborah Kaneb, Recording Secretary/Clerk
Paula Sable, Membership Secretary
Directors:
Ruth Allen
Madeleine Arcovio
Lisa Friberg
Ruben Klein
Sherry Moore
Nadine Ritchie
Melissa Vokey
Kevin Bourque, Ex Officio/ Head Librarian
Volunteers
Volunteers support the many FOL events and programs throughout the year. Opportunities for volunteering include creating and distributing event publicity, preparing for and working at our bi-annual library book sales, working at our annual Books In Bloom event, providing event refreshments, writing grants, and coordinating fundraising efforts. Interested in volunteering? Stop by the Main Desk at the Library.
Programs We Support
Funds raised from programs, membership dues, and our Annual Appeal provide supplemental support for the Library beyond the funding provided by the City of Newburyport. In addition to funding special programs, the FOL supports:
- The Museum Pass Program: free or discounted access to surrounding area museums for library patrons
- Library Archival Center Improvements
- Professional Development for Library staff
- Capital improvements such as new carpeting and furniture
- Special literary, musical, craft, and educational programs for all ages
- Materials purchases for the Library such as AV, books, and videos