Friends of the Juneau Public Libraries

The Friends raises funds through memberships, grants, and by operating a used bookstore. The Amazing Bookstore is run entirely by volunteers and is well supported by the community. Books are donated to the store by the members of the public and the store sells them at bargain prices during five days a week of operation. Each year a monetary gift is given to the Juneau Public Libraries to be spent on programs and activities that support library services, usage, and activities.

The Friends provide annual funding for adult and youth programs, furnishings, and pilot programs for new collections and services. The children’s summer reading program, author visits and speaker stipends, the annual bookmark contest, film,showings, game nights, and family nights are all funded by the Friends. The Friends provided one million dollars toward construction of the Mendenhall Valley Public Library, and funded the first collections of DVDs, video games, and graphic novels. As furnishings are damaged or wear out, the Friends fund repair or replacement.

Last year the children’s section of the Douglas library was refurbished after water damaged the shelving and worn couches were replaced. Theatre Alaska put on several performances free to the public which were very well received. This new partnering was funded by the Friends and is expected to be continued in the coming year.

Friends believe that libraries can provide much more than books to our community- they can bring together neighbors, inspire creativity, and help make Juneau the best place it can be.