Friends of the Library

Friends of the Library is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that was formed November 1,1971. Friends has more than 300 members and 150 volunteers.

Mission Statement

Friends supports the Cedar Rapids Public Library services and programs, promotes literacy through outreach programs that encourage and enhance reading throughout the community and conducts fundraising activities to assist with library and outreach projects.

Activities

In the Fall, Friends hosts a major fundraising event, the Annual Book Sale. More than 80,000 donated books of quality are available at affordable prices. Proceeds from this event plus membership contributions, corporate support, memorials and grants allow Friends to provide:

  1. Cedar Rapids Public Library funding for equipment and programs,
  2. Babies and Books hospital packets for parents of newborns,
  3. Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) distribution of paperback books to preschoolers,
  4. Clifford the Big Red Dog appearances at library story hours, preschools and elementary schools,
  5. America Reads support at area elementary schools,
  6. Literacy Initiative help to service agencies such as Madge Phillips Center and the Free Medical Clinic
  7. Books-by-Mail service for the homebound, and
  8. RIF (Reading is Fundamental)

Book Nook

Visit the Book Nook at the Bridge Library at Westdale Mall
  1. Located near the Library entrance
  2. Books and media for all ages
  3. All items are $1.00

Volunteer Opportunities

The Friends have many opportunities to volunteer throughout the year. If you have an interest in the following activities, contact us at CRFriends@gmail.com
  1. Picking up large book donations in the Metro area
  2. Becoming a board member
  3. Working on special projects - book sale, farmers' market, mailings etc.

Join us in making good things happen!

Download a printable Friends application today.
Adobe Reader is required.