Establishing a Friends of the Library advisory board

Abstract

Purpose

This article aims to describe how a Friends of the Library group was formed to support the collections and services of a small academic university library.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach is used to articulate how a friends group can be established to generate revenue for library collections and services.

Findings

A discussion is used to review concepts supporting how a friends group may be created to provide financial support as well as community outreach and influence.

Practical implications

A friends group can not only add financial stability but also bring much needed positive attention toward various elements of the library enterprise. Friends can help manage special projects or exhibits, allowing library staff to focus on other duties.

Social implications

By reaching out to constituents as ambassadors for the library, a friends group can help to promote and add value to the library's role and impact in the community.

Originality/value

This article provides a unique example to library administrators and leaders of how a friends group can effectively support library collections and services both financially and operationally. Comments are also provided identifying potential and real challenges.

Citation

Eye, J. and Brown, V. (2013), "Establishing a Friends of the Library advisory board", The Bottom Line, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 25-30. https://doi.org/10.1108/08880451311321564