Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Library is a nonprofit 501(c)(4) organization made up of everyday customers and advocates passionate about Columbus Metropolitan Library. Its purpose is to build awareness and resources to champion the vision of the library. The Friends began in 1975 with James R. Hull as the first president. By January 1976 it had 120 members before quickly growing to over 2,500 members by 1981. The first Friends’ book sale was held March 22-27, 1976 at Main Library in the Bookmobile garage. In its early years, some Friends activities included selling salt, baked goods, plants and handmade bookmarks.
The Friends opened a bookstore at Main Library called “Secondhand Prose” in 1977. It was renamed the Library Store in 1991. At the 1997 American Library Association’s conference, the organization was awarded a Friends of the Library USA award for its outstanding membership drive, newsletter and coffee kiosk. Today, Friends of the Library manages revenue-generating library amenities that enhance the library experience and maintains a membership program of library lovers who champion grassroots advocacy in support of Columbus Metropolitan Library.
