About the Friends
The Friends of the Needham Public Library is a nonprofit group organized in 1973 for the purpose of advancing the goals and enriching the resources of the Needham Free Public Library. The Friends’ support for the Library includes supplementing the town’s budget for the purchase of materials, equipment, and museum passes, as well as planning and supporting various programs of enrichment throughout the year. The majority of funds are raised through the Friends’ ongoing and periodic used book sales. Additional funds come from membership dues and donations. The officers and Board of Directors of the Friends plan and organize the activities of the Friends.
The Friends’ contributions and activities include the following:
- Periodic and ongoing book sales
- Programs for adults such as lectures, author readings, and performances.
- Programs for children
- International and foreign periodicals
- Seed funding for the Friends rental collection of best-sellers
- Museum passes
- Audiobooks
- Photocopiers and printers in the new Library building
In May, 2005, the Friends made a donation of $150,000 to the Library Foundation of Needham, in recognition of which the exhibition gallery space in the new building was named the Friends of the Needham Public Library Gallery.
The Friends enjoy opportunities to work together in a variety of settings. Volunteers sort donated books, assist at book sales, plan events, and publish our newsletter The Bookbyte and this web site. All members of the Friends receive our flyers and newsletter, which keep everyone informed of upcoming events and book sales.
We encourage everyone in our community to become members of the Friends.
Contact the Friends
To contact the Friends, click here.