Friends of the Madison Public Library

The Friends organization began in the early 1960's and was incorporated initially to help get the new downtown library built. After that the organization took on the current mission to raise money for library services in the community. The used book store began as a gift shop but was converted to an all-volunteer operation about 25 years ago. The book store sells materials weeded from the library's collections as well as donations from members. The store stocks magazines, CDs, DVDs, albums, and other special items, in addition to books of every kind. Book sales, to get rid of stockpiled materials, have typically been scheduled three or four times per year. A newsletter has been produced to ensure communication with members. Mailings are done as needed to distribute membership renewal information, the book sale schedule, and invitation to the annual meeting. Friends volunteers are also sometimes called upon by the Library staff or the Library Foundation to help with mailings or to staff special events. The organization was involved in planning for the remodeling of the downtown library in 2013 and operates a used-book store in that facility. The Friends of the Madison Public Library raise funds from dues and contributions from members, through operation of a used book store in the Central Library, sponsorship of at least three book sales per year and by promoting donations to the library and library foundation. The organization is managed by volunteers that serve on the board of directors, sort and store donated books, serve as sales clerks in the book store, set up and run the book sales, and manage mailings. Information about the organization, and a membership form, can be found at https://www.friendsmpl.com/.

The Friends of the Madison Public Library is an organization constituted to promote and improve library services, materials and facilities for the Madison community; to stimulate gifts and bequests to the library; to provide volunteer support for the library's programs; to raise funds for immediate and long-range projects; and to encourage the broadest possible use of its facilities, materials, and services.