About Friends

History of Our Organization
The Friends of the Victoria Public Library was founded on July 27, 1971 as a group of Victorians joined together in support of what was then the Bronte Public Library. These members worked to provide financial support and advocacy for the library. Their efforts helped to grow community support for the construction of a new state of the art showcase library for a vibrant city.

The FOVPL believes the library is at the heart of our community in providing opportunities for all to engage in the joy of life-long learning and literacy. Members also understand the critical importance of well funded libraries and have hosted book sales since 1971 to provide funding for critical library programs and services such as the Victoria Public Library Summer Reading Program, early literacy storytimes, teen book clubs and adult programs.

Our Purpose:
The Purpose of the Friends of the Victoria Public Library is to:

• Provide direct financial assistance to the Victoria Public Library for community programs;
• Foster community awareness of the Library and its resources;
• Advocate for the library at the local level for both public and private support;
• Receive and manage donor gifts and bequests.

Volunteers
Volunteers support many FOVPL events and programs throughout the year. Opportunities for volunteering include preparing for and working at our book sales, staffing membership events and our annual meeting.

Programs We Support
Funds raised from membership dues, sponsorships, donations and books sales provide supplemental support for the Library. The Victoria Public Library offers hundreds of programs for all ages from babies to senior citizens. These literacy, musical, craft and educational programs inform, inspire, create fellowship and provide education and entertainment that enhances the quality of life in our community. With the financial support of the Friends, those programs are made available to participants at no charge.