FRIENDS OF THE KALAMAZOO PUBLIC LIBRARY
315 South Rose St.
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2022 [mhg 4]

Contact: Donna Clinard, (269) 352-8275

National Friends of Libraries Week
Friends of the Kalamazoo Public Library

(Kalamazoo, Mich.) October 10, 2022 – The Friends of the Kalamazoo Public Library (FKPL) will join Friends groups across the country to celebrate the 16th Annual National Friends of Libraries Week October 17- 23.

Kalamazoo’s celebration will include a sale in the FKPL Bookstore where most of the store’s collection of more than 10,000 books will be 25 percent off.

The bookstore is open Wednesdays from noon to 6 p.m. and Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Most books, CDs and DVDs sell for less than two dollars.

FKPL was established in 1959 and, since opening its bookstore in 1996, has raised more than $1 million which has been donated to the library to fund many of its programs. Currently, more than 120 people are members who contribute annually to FKPL. Nearly 50 of them actively volunteer to help operate the Friends bookstore in the lower level of the Central Library in downtown Kalamazoo.

FKPL is guided by a 14- member board of directors. Many also volunteer in other capacities. Two part-time employees assist in the day-to-day functioning of the bookstore and its online sales.

“The library has always played such an important role in my life and in my family’s life,” said Friends president Donna Clinard. “I truly enjoy being able to give something back – and being an active member of this group is enjoyable.”

“Our library certainly appreciates the help that Friends gives us,” said library director Ryan Wieber. “They make the purchase of books available to all in the community by offering quality books at low prices. And, I also think most patrons would be surprised to learn how many of our services and programs have been supported by the Friends.”

To become a member or volunteer, go to kpl.gov/category/friends-of-kpl/join-friends/