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Thanks for visiting the Friends of the Free Library of Philadelphia website. The Friends of the Free Library is an independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to support the Free Library of Philadelphia. Through affiliate neighborhood volunteer groups, we promote cooperation and communication between the community and the Free Library and advocate for library services for all.
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Volunteer

Book Corner is currently looking for volunteers to assist with shelving books. Click here for more info.

I Love My Librarian Award

There are nearly 123,000 libraries nationwide, and librarians touch the lives of the people they serve every day. This award encourages library users like you to recognize the accomplishments of exceptional librarians. The ALA wants to hear how you think your librarian is improving the lives of the people in your community. Nominate your librarian today.

Good News for Libraries

On July 15th, Mayor Nutter made good on his promise to the Friends at a meeting held last March. "No more cuts to library services." The Mayor's revised 5 year budget plan, sent to PICA (the state agency that oversees Philadelphia's budget) for final approval, does not include further cuts to our library system. We can thank Mayor Nutter for his commitment to equitable library services that help our school children, students of all ages, families, seniors, new and long-standing Americans, and all of us who are flocking to libraries more than ever. Also thanks to the Mayor for hearing the voices of Philadelphians during these tough financial times -- We Love and Need Our Libraries.
Philadelphia Inquirer (7/15/2010): $47 million in budget cuts spare libraries
Daily News (7/15/10): In Philadelphia's latest budget, cuts abound

Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits from Internet Access at U.S. Libraries

The library's role as a technology resource has increased dramatically, and now nearly every library in the country offers free access to computers and the Internet. Millions of people rely on library technology to find work, apply for college, secure government benefits, learn about critical medical treatments, and connect with their communities.

Unfortunately libraries are struggling to maintain the technology necessary to keep pace with demand. The University of Washington Information School, with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, conducted this first of its kind, large-scale study of who uses public computers and Internet access in public libraries, the ways library patrons use this free technology service, why they use it, and how it affects their lives. Click here to access this report.

Friends Group Assessment Survey

Friends members can find the Assessment Survery discussed at the February 20, 2010 Alliance Meeting by clicking here.

News Log:

Inquirer (7/15/2010): $47 million in budget cuts spare libraries
Daily News (7/15/2010): In Philadelphia's latest budget, cuts abound
LA Times (7/6/2010): U.S. public libraries: We lose them at our peril
Press release (6/11/2010): PCCY and Friends Call for Meeting to Discuss Budget Cuts
Inquirer (5/25/2010): A chance to shape libraries
Inquirer (5/21/2010): Soda tax off table; Nutter vows cuts
Philadelphia Daily News (3/15/2010): Hiring of 10 library guards to ease closings hit a glitch
Northeast Times (2/11/2010): Making their case at Bushrod Library