Be a Friend to Goshen Public Library
This National Friends of the Library Appreciation Week, we invite you to join the Friends of the Goshen Public Library in making a lasting impact on our community!
If you’ve ever enjoyed refreshments at a kids’ library event, attended a special guest program, shopped at the used book sale, or watched children play in GPL’s iconic book-themed treehouse, you’ve directly benefited from the work of the Friends.
Since their incorporation in 1983, the Friends have played a vital role in supporting the library’s mission through fundraising and organizing special programs. In the past year alone, the Friends have funded a range of initiatives, including a new public-use printing station, two programs on Chinese calligraphy, two weeks of English language classes, book club supplies, carpet repairs, the Eclipse watch party, and much more. The Summer Reading Program’s “Funday Monday” programs in Pringle Park are usually the most-attended programs of the whole year, and they’re funded by the Friends.
In February 2024, the Friends matched donations for the Summer Reading Book Giveaways, raising over $5,000 to provide free books to kids and teens in Goshen—doubling the original goal.
“We wouldn’t have the Children’s Department we have now without the Friends,” said Tina Ervin, Head of Children’s Services. “They’ve supported us in a big way over the years. They’re always happy to support programs that enrich the lives of kids in our community.”
One of the Friends’ key fundraising strategies is the beloved book sale, which offers a wide range of books, magazines, DVDs, and more—often for as little as $0.25. This sale not only supports the library financially but also puts books into the hands of community members at affordable prices.
But it’s not just about raising funds. The Friends also serve as passionate advocates for the library, partnering with the library to enrich lives, create connections, promote equitable access to resources, nurture a love of reading, and champion education and lifelong learning.
“What we all share is a love of books and affection for libraries,” said Karla Rieth, Secretary of the Friends of the Library. “We want to meet the needs of the library and also get books into the hands of people in Goshen.”
Unfortunately, participation in the Friends has declined in recent years, and the organization is facing an uncertain future. The Friends are seeking volunteers to help several ways: take book donations and work in the sorting room, help with book sales, and to serve on the board.
Be a Friend to your library—volunteer today and help us continue this important work for our community!
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