The Society of Friends of the Lethbridge Public Library exists to help our Library offer the best programs and services of any library in a community of comparable size in Canada.
From the Board:
The Society of Friends is a group of people who believe that public libraries are essential to a vibrant, informed and connected society. We value the library as a place where everyone: regardless of age, background or circumstance: can explore ideas, discover new interests and access resources that enrich their lives.
As a volunteer-driven organization, we work to strengthen our public libraries through advocacy, fundraising and community engagement. Whether we’re organizing events, supporting special programs, or championing the library’s role in our city, we’re committed to ensuring that this vital public space continues to thrive. We invite you to join us in celebrating and sustaining the heart of our community –the library.
THE FRIENDS' BOOKTIQUE -PROVIDING GREAT BOOKS AT GREAT PRICES
The Friends established the Booktique in the fall of 2006 with the “doors” opening in February of 2007.
The Booktique comprises a number of shelves of books, CDs, and DVDs, providing a variety of items for sale every day that the Lethbridge Public Library (LPL) is open. At the Main Branch of the LPL, the Booktique is located on the bridge between the north and south wings of the Library. There is also a Booktique shelf located beside the fishpond on the lower level outside of the childrens’ area. At the Crossings Branch, the Booktique is beside the Friends’ Room adjacent to the corridor leading to the washrooms.
Books, CDs, and DVDS can be purchased from any of the three Booktiques. Payment is made at the Customer Service Desks.
For more information on donating books click HERE.
If you are interested in volunteering with us, please feel welcome to drop by the Theatre Gallery most Mondays from 10am to 1pm.
Volunteer
Members of the Friends volunteer about 2000 hours annually! Your help would be most welcome. Please click the Volunteer Activities button below to learn more about our many activities.
Donate
Money counts when it comes to fulfilling the objectives of the Friends organization. Please click the Donate Now button below to make your donation.
Donations of books can also be made in support of our activities. Click the button below to learn how and where.
2025-26 Friends of Lethbridge Public Library Board of Directors:
Top Left) Vic Mensch, Past President; (Second row from the top L to R) Judy Vogt, Secretary; Barry Littlemore, LPL Rep; Adele Douglas, Director; Ian Rideout, Director; (Third row) Denis Stephens, Director; Caryl Nelson-Fitzpatrick, Treasurer; Janice Sheets, Vice President; Deb Rakos, Director; (Bottom Row) Barbara Gibson, Booktique Director; Donna Hunt, President.
ABOUT US
MEMBERSHIP
There are two types of membership in the Society of Friends: Voting Members and Associate Members. Membership status is based on donations of time and money.
There are a couple of ways to become a Voting member in the Society. Individuals who donate $30 or more in a membership year (September 1 to August 31) are Voting members for that year. Alternately, an individual who donates 100 hours or more of volunteer time to Friends’ activities in a previous membership year achieves Voting member status as well. Organizations who donate $50 or more may designate an individual to represent its Voting status.
Associate members are those individuals who donate less than $30 or volunteer occasionally to support Friends’ activities. These members are invited to General Meetings and their input and participation are welcomed. However, they may not vote on any motions or resolutions.
FINANCIALS
Sales of donated books and DVDs are the largest source of annual income for the Friends. Casino revenue, every three years, is also a significant source of funds. Finally, cash donations are a regular and welcome revenue stream. As an all-volunteer organization, our costs always remain well below 1% of income. Please click the button below for more details.
WHAT WE DO
ADVOCATE, PUBLICIZE & PROMOTE
All members of the Friends act as informal ambassadors for our Library. The Friends organization supplements the distribution of the Library’s Program Guide, and other monthly announcements. Please visit our Facebook Page.
FUNDING SPECIAL LIBRARY NEEDS & SERVICES
The Friends organization provides funding for extra services and needs or special programs of the Lethbridge Public Library, augmenting the funds provided by the City of Lethbridge, the largest funder of our Library.