Who are the Friends of the Library (FOL) and what do they do?
The Friends of the Rockport Library, a volunteer organization, raises money through membership dues, donations, and book sales to support library programs and resources not covered by town, state, or federal government.
As allies of the library, we encourage community participation in its programs and activities, and we advocate for library funding from appropriate government agencies. The FOL’s Governing Board works closely with the library director, who reports library news to the board at its monthly meetings and presents requests for funding. The board hosts a yearly Appreciation Reception for library staff and volunteers and offers an Education Reimbursement Program to help staff members with library-related school expenses.
What is a Friends of the Library Membership?
A FOL Membership includes a monthly newsletter that shares how our organization supports library resources and programs, invitations to our virtual and in-person events, and admission to Members Preview Night of each book sale. (Before COVID, many members were invited to an annual Appreciation Reception that we hope we can resume in the future as well.) Like most volunteer fundraising organizations, membership brings the intrinsic reward of participating in helping our library and community as well.
What are the FOL’s bylaws?
Contact Martha Fox, President, to receive a copy of our bylaws.
How is FOL governed?
The board meets on the first Thursday of each month to consider the director’s requests and to decide on ways to raise funds and use our financial and volunteer resources on behalf of the library. In accordance with the bylaws, the board consists of between twelve and twenty-one members, who are elected at the organization’s Annual Meeting in spring/summer. The 2019-2020 board members.
What volunteer opportunities are available with the FOL?
The FOL welcomes ideas and suggestions for new initiatives. We hope members will find ways to match their experience and interests with the financial needs of the library and the volunteer needs of our organization. Here are some opportunities:
• Sorting and boxing donated books
• Helping set up the book sales and selling at the sales
• Maintaining the ongoing Buck-a-Book sales area
• Serving as Treasurer or Assistant Treasurer
• Recruiting members
• Managing membership lists, member cards, and FOL correspondence
• Representing the FOL at town events such as Motif #1 Day and the Farmers’ Markets
• Using social media to communicate FOL events and its mission
• Generating fresh fundraising ideas
• Selling special books and media online
• Serving on the Governing Board
Looking for ways to donate to the FOL?
You can mail a check to:
Friends of the Library
PO Box 31
Rockport, MA 01966
or you share an online donation through PayPal using the QR code below:
