Since the establishment of the Lynchburg Public Library in 1966, the Friends have promoted literacy, advocated for the development of library services, encouraged community support, and funded projects to support library services by providing equipment, materials and programs.

The following are supported by the Friends of the Library

• An endowment fund to assure library funding regardless of federal, state and local funding fluctuations
• $14,000 annually to the Volunteer Program – 100 volunteers gave 3,000 hours in 2009
• $2,500 annually to Youth Summer Reading Program – over 2,500 children were reached in 2009
• $2,000 annually to purchase adult materials
• Printing and mailing of the Library newsletter
• Support for Lynchburg Reads 
• Provide Early Literacy Stations for the Main Library and Downtown Branch

In 2004, the Friends coordinated an Advocacy Campaign to maintain city funding at current levels. Over 1,000 citizens contacted City Council in support of the Library. Without this support, $175,000 would have been cut from the FY 2005 budget.

In March 2010, the Friends offered $10,000 to help keep the Downtown Branch and Law Library from being closed due to city budget cuts.  City Council has not yet responded to their generous offer.

Become a Friend

Download and print out a Friends Membership Application

Donate to the Friends

Making a gift to the Friends of the Lynchburg Public Library is thoughtful, appreciated, and easy.  The Friends are a 501c3 organization.  You can

• Donate online via Network For Good (American Express, Discover, Visa, or MasterCard)
• Donate by mail (check or money order)

Friends of the Lynchburg Public Library

2315 Memorial Ave.

Lynchburg, VA 24501

Vision & Mission Statements