Prince William Public Libraries Recognizes Its Friends of the Library in Celebration of National Friends of Libraries Week

Prince William Public Libraries will be spending the week of October 17 – 23, 2021 recognizing the contributions and efforts of its Friends of the Library groups as part of the 16th annual celebration of National Friends of Libraries Week.

The Friends of the Library are individual 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations providing support to their designated library and the five smaller libraries in the system. In total, seven Friends groups throughout Prince William County and the City of Manassas raise money through membership dues, book sales, and other fundraising efforts.

“I’ve seen with my own [children] and grandchild just how much they develop when they read,” said Dick Thomson, president of the Friends of the Potomac Library. “That’s been one of my driving forces for my continuing participation in the Friends.”

Without the Friends of the Library, Prince William Public Libraries would not be able to offer Summer Reading programs and prizes, year-round programs, programming supplies and refreshments, and additional funds for furniture and other equipment needs.

“We’re also looking for somebody to come in and give their time and their service, and it’s rewarding,” said Karen Nizialek, president of the Friends of the Haymarket Gainesville Library.

The Friends groups collectively donated more than $40,000 to Prince William Public Libraries this past fiscal year.

“The Friends of the Library are truly valued for the work they do to support Prince William Public Libraries,” remarked Deborah Wright, library director. “Their continued commitment helps us achieve so much to enhance programs and services provided to the greater Prince William community.”

Visit pwcva.gov/library to learn more about how to become a member of one of the seven Friends of the Library groups. 

About United for Libraries

National Friends of Libraries Week is coordinated by United for Libraries, a division of the American Library Association with approximately 4,000 personal and group members representing hundreds of thousands of library supporters. United for Libraries supports those who govern, promote, advocate, and fundraise for libraries, and brings together library trustees, advocates, friends, and foundations into a partnership that creates a powerful force for libraries in the 21st century. For more information, visit ala.org/united.

About Prince William Public Libraries

Prince William Public Libraries consists of 12 branches throughout Prince William County and the City of Manassas, providing free access to books, e-books, e-audio, print and digital magazines, Digital Library, and CDs/DVDs. PWPL also offers free educational and entertaining programs for all ages. Learn more at pwcva.gov/library.

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Media Contact

Rachel Johnson, Communication Services Division Chief

Prince William Public Libraries

571-298-7249

[email protected]