Friends' groups are critical to the success of public libraries. Friends support the library and expand its effectiveness in the community. And in the process, Friends provide an opportunity for individuals to contribute to their community.
- Friends provide financial support by generating revenue to supplement the library budget through membership dues and fundraising activities.
- Friends provide grassroots support for the library in the community.
- Friends are good-will ambassadors, spreading the word in the community. They stimulate greater awareness of the wide array of library programs and services.
- Friends advocate for the library in the community by speaking out on local, state, and national issues that affect libraries. Members speak to civic groups in the community, attend meetings, and contact government officials on behalf of their library.
- Friends sponsor library programs of cultural interest to the community.
- Friends provide volunteer help in the library when and where it is needed.