Friends of the Longmont Public Library

 

FRIENDS OF THE LONGMONT LIBRARY

PLEASE DONATE TODAY

WHO ARE WE? Friends is a volunteer organization devoted to promoting literacy and supporting the Longmont Public Library's programs for adults, teens and children through financial gifts and volunteer efforts. We raise funds through donations, endowments, membership dues, book sales, and online sales of rare and special books. We also donate teaching and reference material free of charge to teachers and under-served communities through a partnership with DreamBooks. 

Unlike other city facilities that generate revenue, like the Recreation Center, the city of Longmont only funds material, staff, and facilities for the library. To make up for this shortfall, programming at Longmont’s library comes from Friends. Last year, we gave the library more than $73,000 dollars...Thanks to Friends, here are just some of the things your library card gives you access to!

MISSION STATEMENT: The Friends of the Longmont Public Library is a group of citizens building civic involvement and promoting literacy by supporting the Longmont Public Library's programs for adults, teens and children through financial gifts and volunteer efforts.

BACKGROUND: Friends of the Longmont Library was created in 1983 — when a small group of library enthusiasts got together to form a group dedicated to encouraging public support of the Longmont Library. Bea Melchow, then-director of the Longmont Library, had collected withdrawn library books the library no longer needed and told another member of the fledgling Friends group, “You are going to run a book sale.” And so, we did. The sale was on a Saturday morning with only two tables set up outside the library; it made a few hundred dollars to benefit the library. Shortly after, in 1984, the Friends of the Longmont Library was formally incorporated as a 501(c)(3) organization. By the end of our fiscal year in 1985, we had a budget of over $1,375 and 77 members. The following years saw a steady increase in our budget, membership, and activities. 

Adult programs and discussion groups became well-attended events. Frequent requests from the library for funding for the latest technology began a trend that continues to this day. Now, nearly forty years later, the Friends of the Longmont Library has over 400 members, an annual budget well over $100,000.00, a year-round Lobby Book Shop, and four BIG Book Sales. Funding projects for the library have continued to set new record amounts. And in 2024, the Colorado Association of Libraries awarded Friends its 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award. 

TESTIMONIALS: Last year, Clint, 9 years old, said it best: "You know why I love this library? It has everything you need!”  Thanks to Friends, Clint is right…and here are some more testimonials from people benefitting from the programs and services funded by Friends.

Access to Technology "I don’t have internet at home, so being able to use the library’s computers has been a lifesaver. I’ve applied for jobs, stayed in touch with family, and even taken an online course….all….thanks to the library’s free Wi-Fi and helpful staff." — Justin, Longmont resident

Language Learning and Inclusion "The English language programs helped me feel more confident speaking at work and with my neighbors. The library made me feel welcome and gave me the tools to be part of the community." — Luis, new resident

Programs for Adults and Teens "The library’s adult programs have introduced me to new hobbies, new friends, and new ideas. My teenager loves the creative writing club and has even started submitting her own stories. It’s amazing to see how much she’s grown through these programs." — Rebecca, parent and library patron

Free Community Passes "I couldn’t afford to take my kids to the museum, but with the library’s free passes, we’ve discovered so many wonderful places together. It’s more than a fun day out — it’s building memories and curiosity that will last a lifetime." — Jamie, mother of two

Lifelong Learning and Connection "The library isn’t just about books — it’s about opportunity. I’ve attended talks, learned new computer skills, and met people who have become real friends. It’s the heart of our community."
— Ron, retired teacher