Friends of A K Smiley Public Library

The Friends of A K Smiley Public Library is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the A K Smiley Public Library located in Redlands, California. Established to enhance the resources and programs of the library, the organization plays a crucial role in fostering community engagement and promoting literacy.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Friends of A K Smiley Public Library is to raise funds to supplement the library's collections and services. This is achieved through various initiatives, including the operation of the A K Smiley Bookstore, which sells donated books, media, and other items. The bookstore is significant as it features thousands of used books, with proceeds supporting library programs and infrastructure upgrades[1][4].

In addition to its bookstore, the Friends organize events such as silent auctions and special sales to further raise funds. The organization also sponsors various educational and cultural programs, including book clubs, children’s activities, and guest speaker events, which are designed to promote lifelong learning and community involvement[3][4].

History

The Friends of A K Smiley Public Library has a rich history of service, having been instrumental in the library's development for several decades. Since its inception, the organization has successfully raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, significantly contributing to both adult and family literacy programs within the community. The Friends have also played a vital role in the library's ability to offer a range of educational resources and community services[3][4].

Membership and Volunteer Opportunities

Membership in the Friends of A K Smiley Public Library is open to anyone interested in supporting the library. The organization offers various membership levels, with annual dues used to fund library activities and enhance collections. Members often receive benefits such as discounts at the bookstore and access to special events[3].

Volunteering opportunities are plentiful and include sorting donations, restocking shelves, assisting with special events, and participating in promotional activities. Volunteers are key to the Friends' operations, helping to ensure the success and sustainability of their programs[4].

Conclusion

The Friends of A K Smiley Public Library exemplifies the spirit of community involvement and support for public libraries. Through its fundraising efforts and programs, it significantly enhances the resources available to the A K Smiley Public Library and strengthens the bond between the library and the community it serves.

[1] https://aksmileybookstore.com [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._K._Smiley_Public_Library [3] https://aksmileybookstore.com/defaultsite/ [4] https://www.akspl.org/front-page/friends-bookstore/ [5] https://www.akspl.org