Friends of the Galena Public Library

We are a group of people who are proud of our wonderful library and are dedicated to helping the library serve our community. The Friends of the Galena Public Library was established on February 4, 1994 and is a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt organization. The Friends receive funds through memberships, Corner Book Sale, and the Annual Book Sale. Friends membership dues and donations are fully tax-deductible. Membership dues allow the Friends to grant library funding requests that help to expand programming, enhance library services, and provide additional collections.

How the Friends help the library serve the community

We work to increase public awareness of library resources and services and assist in fundraising efforts to provide the library with additional collections and improved services. The Friends are active in promoting the library throughout the community. We also support the Freedom to Read Statement as expressed in the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights. 

Learn about the Friends’ activities and events

We send mailings to members and share information on the Galena, IL Facebook page. 

Recent activities include:

Annual pre-owned book sale

Sponsor library programs

Provide hospitality for library events

Maintain Corner Book Sale

Participate in local events to promote the library and Friends organization

Pursue new fundraising opportunities

Recent support provided:

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Galena LitFest

Large print books and audiobooks

Book Page Magazine

Little Free Libraries

Ancestry subscription

eRead Illinois subscription

Annual Book Sale

The Book Sale is the Friends’ largest annual fundraiser. This year’s Book Sale will be held from July 17-20 2024 at the Galena Elementary and Middle School.* Donations are accepted at the library from March 6 to June 2.

*Wednesday, July 17th is Friends Only Night. You may join the Friends of the Library at the Book Sale to shop Wednesday night!

Join the Friends

To become a member of the Friends of the Galena Public Library District, mail a check with your name, address, phone number, and email to:

Friends of the Galena Public Library
601 S. Bench St.
Galena, IL 61036

You may also pick up a membership envelop at the library and at the Little Free Libraries around town. Membership runs from July 1st to June 30th. 

If you have questions, please contact us at friends@galenalibrary.org

Annual Membership Dues:

Student: $1

Individual: $10

Family: $30

Patron: $50

Sponsor: $100

Lifetime: $500

Volunteer Opportunities

We are always looking for volunteers! Your involvement is vital to our success. Opportunities include: Annual Book Sale, providing baked goods, assisting with special events, serving on the Friends’ Board and more.