path with trees lining it. entryway to brick building.

Kingston Library provides great resources for research, learning, and enjoyment for local residents, but the library can get only so far on tax money. That’s where Friends of the Kingston Library comes into play.

Through various volunteer and fundraising efforts, Friends of the Kingston Library works hard to improve every aspect of the library, including the facilities, the collection, and the programs offered. All of us in Friends appreciate the cultural and educational value of Kingston Library, and we hope you’ll join us in helping to make the library the best it can be.

What We Do

In its efforts to improve Kingston Library as a public resource for all area residents, Friends of the Kingston Library gets involved with the Library in a variety of ways, including:

  • Providing additional funding to the Library to buy books, CDs, DVDs, and downloadable audiobooks beyond what’s possible with only tax support
  • Making even more exhibits and community programs possible, including Super Saturdays
  • Holding used book sales to raise additional money
  • Providing support and helping to care for the library garden and sitting areas
  • Getting out the vote for library elections
  • Recognizing civic organizations and leaders who provide support to the library
  • Organizing and supporting an annual staff and volunteer appreciation dinner

Friends of the Kingston Library’s official relationship with the Kingston Library is outlined in further detail here.

How You Can Help

For all of these activities, Friends of the Kingston Library must rely on the support of volunteers. This requires people like you to fill many different roles, including:

  • Becoming a member and providing extra financial support to the Friends, no matter what the amount
  • Seeking gifts, bequests, and endowments to help fund long-term future development of the library
  • Volunteering within the library when needed
  • Teaming up with friends of other libraries in order to gain broader support and advocacy

Meetings

Have questions or concerns for a board member? Contact information is available at the Board of Trustees contact page.

Join In

Do you love the library as much as we do? If so, we welcome you to join us in helping to make the library even better. No matter what level of help you’re able to offer, whether it’s volunteering or donating money, any help is always appreciated. To become a member, please fill out the online application, and send an envelope with a check made out to Friends of the Kingston Library. You can either drop off your envelope at the library circulation desk or mail it to the library at 55 Franklin Street, Kingston, NY 12401. All donations to Friends of the Kingston Library are tax-deductible.

FILL OUT APPLICATION

Contact Us

Got a question or something you’d like to send us? Send postal mail to:

Heather Ohlson, President
Friends of the Kingston Library
132 Stahlman Pl
Kingston, NY 12401

Or, if you prefer, send us an e-mail at friends@kingstonlibrary.org.