History of the Friends & Foundation
Originally, there were two nonprofit support organizations – the Friends of the Arlington Public Library (established in 1986) and the Arlington Public Library Foundation (established in 1993). The Friends held semi-annual book sales and Book & Author Luncheons and the Foundation raised funds primarily through grants, events, and direct mail solicitations. Because of their similar goals to support the Library System, the two groups merged October 2016 to form the Friends & Foundation.
Goals
- Bring together people who share an interest in libraries
- Promote public awareness and community support for the Library system
- Encourage gifts and fundraising activities that benefit the Arlington Public Library System
Become a Member
Show your support of the Arlington Public Library by joining the Friends and Foundation. Memberships start at just $25 annually. Benefits include:
- The Bookcase E-Newsletter
- Members only preview of the spring and fall book sales
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Book and Author Events
- Invitation to the Annual Meeting and Dinner
Donate
Thank you for supporting the Friends and Foundation of the Arlington Public Library. Gifts to FFAPL are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law and provide vital support for the incredible programs and services provided by our wonderful library system here in Arlington.
Continue the Dream Gala
We are celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the library on November 4 at the Continue the Dream Gala. Funds raised will be used to update and improve library branches throughout the city. Sponsorship opportunities are now available for this fun 1920’s themed evening that you won’t want to miss. Tickets will be available in September.
Mailing Address
300 East South Street #159
Arlington, TX 76004
Warehouse Address for Book Donations
2205 W Division Street, Suite G4
Arlington, TX 76012
Contact
Upcoming Events
FALL BOOK SALE
September 25-29, 2024
Meadowbrook Park
For the latest news at your local branch, click here
Friends and Foundation Board Members
Friends and Foundation of the Arlington Public Library’s Fiscal operating year is October to September and the full board meets monthly, on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Members of the Board serve three-year terms. A director who has served for two full consecutive three-year terms may not be reappointed until one year has elapsed after the end of his or her second consecutive three-year term. New or successor directors are elected by the Board of Directors at the first meeting of the fiscal year.
Friends and Foundation of the Arlington Public Library’s officers include a Chair, Vice Chair, Immediate Past Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. They are elected by the Board of Directors at the Board of Directors’ first meeting of the fiscal year. Officers may serve up to four consecutive one-year terms in the same office. When the Chair has completed his or her term in that office, he or she will serve as Immediate Past Chair.
Current Board Members
- Claire Alexander
- Susan Barker, Membership Chair
- Mike Becknal, Treasurer
- Terry Bertrand
- Charles Goodyear
- Chris Kerr
- Martha Kinard
- Patty Kirby
- Emily Klophaus, Vice Chair
- Heather Lowe, Chair
- Tiffany Mann
- Lydia McKinney
- Toni Najjar
- Diana Saleh
- Lori Urso
- Polly Walton, Immediate Past Chair
- Kari Williams, Secretary