About the Friends
The Friends of the Lowell Public Library, Inc. is a nonprofit organization created to support and enhance the Lowell Public Library and the Schneider and Shelby branch libraries.
Membership is open to all who support the aims and purposes of the Friends of the Lowell Public Library. New members are always welcome! Sit in on a meeting and find out how the Friends support our libraries.
F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
FOUNDED in 1973 by Alice VanNada
RESIDENTS pledging their time, interest and enthusiasm to support our library
INVOLVED in fundraising to expand and enrich library programs
ENCOURAGE community participation in Children’s, Teen, Adult and Senior programs at all three locations
NURTURE and co-sponsor programs such as Santa Story Time and the Student Art Exhibit
DONATE funds to the library for community programs
STRIVE to make our Friends of the Library group the most welcoming and active in all of Lake County
Meetings
Please feel free to stop by a meeting! Meet like-minded neighbors, share your skills and learn how the Friends accomplish all they do for our libraries.
When you become a Friend, you’re helping our libraries thrive and joining a circle of people who care about our libraries and community.
Meetings are typically held at the Lowell Library, the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 PM.
Fundraisers and Events
The Friends sponsor many fundraisers and events for our libraries.
Ongoing fundraisers include selling flash drives, earbuds, ornaments decorated with an image of the Lowell Library, and a book sale. The ongoing book sale features a wide selection of books, magazines, audiobooks, music CDs, and DVDs. On the last Saturday of each month, a $3 bag sale is held for books and magazines. Items available depend on donations from the community. If you’re interested in donating items in good condition, contact the library at 219-696-7704 for more information.
The Friends also organize special annual events throughout the year. Thanks to generous donations of items from members, library staff, and the community, the Spring Rummage Sale in April is a highly anticipated and successful event. The Student Art Exhibit and Reception in May honors artists from local schools. NatureFest in September is a fun event with nature-minded vendors. Learn, Shop, and Discover!
Social Events
We have fun, too! Several meetings are combined with a social event.
- March – we enjoy a dinner out
- August – a picnic at the park
- December – tree trimming and holiday party with a potluck dinner
Newcomers are always welcome to any social event or meeting.
Join
Simply fill out the application and pay your dues. Both can be turned in at the front desk or mailed to the library.
A minimum annual donation of $5 secures your membership—but if you’d like to give more, your generosity helps us do even more for the library.
Dues are encouraged to be paid annually in January, and no later than the March meeting. However, payment anytime throughout the calendar year is accepted for the current year’s dues. Payment for the next year will not be accepted prior to January 1st.
Participate
Become a member and take an active role in the organization! We value our members- they promote library services and events, and volunteer when needed. Members also participate in fundraising initiatives and the annual rummage sale. Once you’re ready, consider becoming an officer!
Officers
President: Jo
Vice-President: Kathy
Treasurer: Allison
Secretary: Faith
Corresponding Secretary: Renee
Historian: Phyllis
President, Treasurer and Historian are elected in odd numbered years. Vice-President, Secretary and Corresponding Secretary are elected in even numbered years.