About the Friends
The Friends was established in 1974 by a number of historically significant South Floridians including Frank Brogan, Mae Knight Clark, Helen Dorsett, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Margaret Ewell, Douglas Fairbairn, Pamela Johnson, Helen Muir, William Muir, and Ralph Renick. In our 50+ year history, the Friends has successfully advocated for library funding and against budget cuts and can take credit for saving many library branches from closure.
our Mission
The Friends advocates and fundraises for the Miami-Dade Public Library System while championing the use of its valuable services and programs. We envision a Miami-Dade where the library is the go-to destination for resources and services that connect and strengthen our community.
our Leadership
Our Trustees are dedicated professionals who are passionate about the Library and our community. They are responsible for our long-term strategic planning, for advancing its mission, and for carrying out its fiduciary responsibilities.
Our MEMBERS
Your membership supports vital library programs and promotes reading in our community. Plus, enjoy quarterly member socials where you can network, attend author events, swap books, and connect with others who share your love of literature.
Our Volunteers
Whether you are looking for service hours to give back to the community one day at a time, you are a student interested in an internship, or you are ready to support day to day operations by joining one of our committees - the opportunities to help abound.
Our Three Pillars
Awareness
Fundraising
Awareness
The Friends seeks to promote awareness of the tremendous breadth and depth of resources offered by the Miami-Dade Public Library System. By promoting such awareness, we seek to increase Library utilization and strengthen the community’s perception of the Library as an invaluable resource.
Advocacy
Fundraising
Awareness
The Friends is the primary advocacy organization for the Library. The Friends' advocacy efforts have helped maintain critical funding for the Library and kept branches open that otherwise would have closed. The Friends continues to work toward ensuring the Library’s interests are protected.
Fundraising
Fundraising
Fundraising
The Friends raises critical funds that help supplement public funding in order to support and expand Library programs and services. Our fundraising efforts are focused on both individuals and corporations. We take donations big and small - every penny helps!