Friends of the Ann Arbor District Library

Overview

The Friends of the Ann Arbor District Library (FAADL) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Ann Arbor District Library (AADL) in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Established in May 1953, when the library was known as the Ann Arbor Public Library, FAADL has been instrumental in promoting literacy services and enhancing community access to information and library resources.

History

FAADL was formed to advocate for a central location for the new library, which led to the current downtown site. The organization played a pivotal role in the establishment of library branches and bookmobile services. Initially, fundraising efforts began in 1954 with a yard sale that raised $348, helping to rent the library's first bookmobile. Over the years, FAADL has grown significantly, becoming a major supporter of the AADL's mission.

Activities and Contributions

• Fundraising and Support: FAADL operates a book shop where community-donated items are sold to raise funds. They annually contribute $100,000 to the AADL, supporting children’s programs such as the Summer Game, second-grade visits to the library, and teen writing contests.

• Volunteer Engagement: FAADL has approximately 250 members, with around 125 active volunteers working in various roles, including book sorting and sales. Volunteers contribute significantly to maintaining the organization's operations and community events.

• Community Engagement: The organization hosts major weekend sales and other events throughout the year. They also participate in community projects, such as stocking Little Free Libraries and donating to the Books for Prisons program.

Current Developments

As of recent years, FAADL has expanded its sales channels through an online store and regularly refreshes its bookshelves with new donations. They are noted for their role in preserving books and offering a wide range of literature to the community. The organization is planning to move its operations to a new, larger location in the future.

Anniversary Celebrations

In 2023, FAADL celebrated its 70th anniversary of supporting the Ann Arbor District Library. This milestone marked seven decades of dedication to enhancing literacy services and promoting community involvement in library activities.

Mission

The Friends of the Ann Arbor District Library remains committed to its mission of supporting public access to information, advocating for the library, and fostering community participation in its services. Through its continuous efforts, FAADL plays an integral role in enriching educational and cultural opportunities for the residents of Ann Arbor.