National Friends of Libraries Week

This year marks the 15th annual National Friends of Libraries Week, and San Mateo County Libraries is honored and excited to celebrate its many support groups.

Our Many Friends

San Mateo County Libraries is fortunate to have 12 Friends groups supporting library efforts in their respective communities and a Foundation to support systemwide activities. Since 2010, Friends and Foundation groups have provided over $2 million to enhance local programming and systemwide activities. This year, groups have specifically reached out to support the changing needs of the libraries and we appreciate their on-going commitment to contribute to our communities.  

Friends/Foundation contributors actively volunteer their time to assist the group with fundraising efforts including membership drives, book sales, and events.

Take a look at what these two active supporters have to say about our libraries:

“Throughout my life, libraries have always been safe, welcoming spaces to explore ideas, ignite imagination and pursue interests. I wanted to help build a legacy for this amazing organization; joining the Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries offered that opportunity.”

Kate Duggan, President, Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries 

“My first Saturday job when I was at school was stacking shelves in my local library. Libraries have been important to me ever since as I've watched them evolve into the information and community centers that we see today. I'm now a Board member and will continue to advocate for the place of libraries in our society in the years to come.”  

Paul Gater, Secretary, Friends of Half Moon Bay Library 

Get Involved

Friends: Visit our Friends page, opens a new window that lists the individual groups. Learn how to become a volunteer, member, or donor in your local community Friends group.

Foundation: Visit our Foundation website, opens a new window. Learn how to become a volunteer or donor that supports systemwide programs and services.

About Friends of Libraries Week 

National Friends of Libraries Week is coordinated by United for Libraries, a division of the American Library Association, opens a new window with approximately 4,000 personal and group members representing hundreds of thousands of library supporters.