San Buenaventura Friends of the Library

Overview

San Buenaventura Friends of the Library (SBFOL) is a nonprofit organization located in Ventura, California. It is an all-volunteer group dedicated to supporting the public libraries of the City of Ventura.

Mission and Vision

The mission of SBFOL is to advance and protect the interests of the public libraries in the City of Ventura and its surrounding area[2]. The organization believes that knowledge, self-education, enlightenment, culture, language, and literacy are crucial to the growth of healthy individuals and a well-informed citizenry. Its vision is to provide resources in various forms to support the public libraries' mission and promote community engagement through good fellowship[5].

Activities

SBFOL supports the public libraries by raising funds primarily through the sale of donated books. These funds are used for several purposes:

• Library Materials and Equipment: The purchase of books, CDs, DVDs, books on tape, display cases, and other necessary equipment[1][5].
• Programs and Services: Supporting year-round reading programs for children and youth, summer programs, and special programs for families and adults[1][5].
• Community Engagement: Increasing public awareness of library services and advocating for policies that may impact library operations[1][5].

Operations

SBFOL operates a bookstore located in the E.P. Foster Library, offering a variety of gently used books, including children's books, cookbooks, craft books, audiobooks, and vintage publications. The bookstore is open Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM and on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM[4]. Additionally, SBFOL lists some of its collectible items on online platforms like eBay to expand its fundraising efforts[4].

Events and Community Programs

SBFOL participates in and supports various community programs, such as gardening workshops and events that promote literacy and community development. These events are held at different libraries within Ventura, aiming to engage residents in educational and cultural activities[4].