Friends of the Library: 54 Years of Community Impact
Since 1972, the Friends of the Natrona County Library have held 127 sales, raising over $1.5 million. With a dedicated team contributing 3,469 volunteer hours annually, the Friends ensure resources reach those who need them most, including local schools, libraries, and international literacy initiatives.
The Friends of the Library had an incredible year in 2023, contributing to a wide variety of community-focused organizations, supporting literacy programs, and donating resources to those in need. Their outreach extended to local schools, libraries, and even international causes, ensuring that books and educational materials reached the hands of those who needed them most.
Some notable donations in 2023 included:
- Natrona County Airport: Books for waiting area shelves
- Primrose Retirement Community: Large print books and puzzles
- Seton House: Children’s books and a Little Free Library
- Casper Humane Society: Newspapers for animal care
- Food for Thought: Middle school books and canned goods for holiday distribution
In addition to their outreach efforts, the Friends raised an impressive $34,434.50 through various sales, including book and craft sales. These funds directly supported the Natrona County Library, with $25,000 going towards Library needs, $3,000 supporting Wyoming Reads, and $3,129.32 helping to fund the Library’s new StoryWalk.
Continued Success in 2024
The Friends’ success continued in 2024 with three major fundraising sales, raising a total of $26,908.50 so far, including a March Book Sale ($11,135.68), a June Bag Sale ($6,370.71), and a September Book Sale ($9,402.11). These funds have helped maintain the Friends’ commitment to donating $25,000 to the Library and providing additional support to programs like Wyoming Reads.
Volunteer Impact
The Friends of the Library couldn’t achieve these accomplishments without their dedicated volunteers. In 2023, 43 volunteers contributed an incredible 3,469 hours, assisting with everything from sorting donations and managing sales to organizing special staff appreciation events. Their efforts, including managing Amazon book sales, raised over $470 from rare and unique items sold online.
In 2024, volunteers have already contributed 1,723.50 hours, continuing to support the Library’s mission and helping to organize key events like book and bag sales.
Supporting Education and Community Projects
The Friends’ outreach extends far beyond book donations. In 2023, they contributed to educational institutions and community projects, such as providing books to Casper College’s daycare, Mills Headstart, and local schools. In 2024, they’ve expanded their efforts to include donations to:
- Cody, Natrona County, and Roosevelt High Schools: Yearbooks and books for collections
- Little Free Libraries: Spreading literacy with children’s books
- Edgerton and Glenrock Libraries: Local history books
- Philippines Outreach: Children’s books for international programs
The Friends of the Library also supported local organizations like Casper Pride Library, Audubon Society, and Goodwill with donations of books, craft items, and other materials.
Through their tireless efforts, the Friends of the Library continue to enrich the community, fostering a love of reading and ensuring that resources reach those who need them most.
You can help the Friends of the Library continue their incredible work by supporting their fundraising efforts. Whether it’s shopping at one of their book sales or making a donation, every bit helps enrich our community. Visit their webpage to get started.