The Friends of the Perth & District Union Public Library was formed in September, 1993. This organization’s mission is “to assist the librarian to maintain and enhance the resources and services of the library” by:

• Co-ordinating volunteers and planning annual programs and social events in consultation with the librarian
• Organizing fund-raising events for materials and equipment not included in the library’s budget
• Representing the mutual interests of the library and the communities using its services
• Focusing public attention on the library’s resources and services
• Exchanging ideas with Friends groups from other libraries
• Maintaining the exterior garden and caring for indoor plants

Since its inception the Friends of the Library have held a number of successful fund-raising events; such as, used book sales, bake sales, Polar Bear plunge, quilt raffle, Library Hoedown, book blitz, book raffles, etc.

Other social events they have sponsored include a Santa Claus parade post-party, donations of prizes for library art contests, donations of bicycles for the Library’s Read to Ride summer program, author readings, programs for seniors, etc. The Friends are also one of the many sponsors of the library’s summer Literacy Program for children.

Over the years, the Friends have raised a total of $70,000 for our library. As advocates for the library, the Friends have visited local councils in support of increased funding and surveyed political candidates on the issue of public library support.