Friends of the London Public Library is a volunteer organization which exists to provide community support for our library system.

Our Mandate

• to advocate on behalf of the Library
• to raise funds which enhance Library programs and collections.

During its first sixteen years, Friends have raised more than $900,000 for Library programs not covered by the City operating grant.  

News

2011 Book Sale

This year’s Friends of the London Public Library Book Sale, Oct 21 – 23, at the Western Fair Special Events Building was another great success, due in large part to the participation of so many wonderful volunteers. Proceeds will be used to enhance Library programs that Londoners enjoy each and every day. From hands-on computer courses and English language mentors to children’s literacy programs and digitizing archival photographs in the London Room, your public library, and its Friends, are dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Londoners.

It is worth repeating that the success of the sale is very dependent on donated materials. These add interest to the traditional materials that become surplus from the Library. Please keep this in mind when you are looking to reorganize your bookshelves. If you have donations of books, magazines, cds, dvds, even vinyl records, please take them to any library branch in bags or boxes marked “for the book sale.”

Again, thank you! And we’ll see you again in 2012, Oct 19 -21.

2011 Friends of the Year

left to right: Ron and Karen Payne, Liz Lawson

At the Annual General Meeting, the Friends of the London Public Library recognized Ron and Karen Payne and Liz Lawson as Friends of the Year 2011. Ron, Karen and Liz have been members of Friends since its beginning in 1993; Karen recalls attending the first meeting in Byron. This gracious trio has served as the Friends hospitality team for most of Friends' existence, providing refreshments at countless events and programs sponsored by the Friends and the London Public Library. They have brought smiling faces, conversation, refreshing punch, and tasty snacks to audiences and authors, panelists, performers, political hopefuls, members, volunteers, and children.

The Friend of the Year Award includes a donation of $200 made on behalf of the recipient. Ron, Karen and Liz have requested that the donation go to the A Book for Every Child® campaign.

Speaking with Friends

As part of the Speaking With Friends series, London award-winning author, Bonnie Burnard, was welcomed on October 3, following the Annual General Meeting. The audience was treated to a fine reading from her book, “The Good House”, which won the Giller prize in 1999. She graciously answered questions which made for a most enjoyable evening. Following the reading, Friends hosted a reception, Oxford Books provided books for purchase, and Ms. Burnard was available for an autograph session. Proceeds from the event went to children and youth literacy programs at the London Public Library.