Focus on Friends - The Friends of the Pompano Beach Libraries

The Friends of the Pompano Beach Libraries was established in 1974 as a City of Pompano Library Friends Group. At times, the organization has represented three library branches, the Pompano Beach Branch (PO), the Beach Branch (BE) and the Northwest Branch (NW). The Beach Branch became part of the Pompano Beach Friends in 1982, and the Northwest Branch was part of the organization from 1978 until 2005, when they formed their own Friends Group. In 1991 the Friends of the Pompano Beach Libraries joined the Friends of Broward County Library umbrella group.

The Friends of the Pompano Beach Libraries raise funds for unbudgeted items such as typewriters, CD shelves, craft supplies, prizes, an auditorium carpet, a lectern, vertical blinds, and special programs.

The Friends have supported all children's summer library programs for PO and NW, as well as other children's programs throughout the year. The group created a First Book Program for under privileged kindergartners.

During the year, the Friends have an ongoing Lobby Book Sale and two Annual Book Fairs in December and April. They host an annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and several library staff meetings. The group also sponsors an Annual Local Author's Reception and six programs of community interest, providing each program with refreshments.

The Friends group now supports two branch libraries -- the Pompano Beach Branch and the Beach Branch.

At the 2005 Friends of the Library Luncheon and Awards, the group won an "Innovative Program Award" and an award for "Support of Staff Training and Development."

For more information about the Friends of the Pompano Beach Libraries, call 954-357-7595.

Opportunities for involvement in Friends groups exist at most Broward County Library branches. For information about other Friends groups, contact Friends of Broward County Libraries, Inc. at 954-357-7771.

Remember: Good Friends make Great Libraries!