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Library friends groups

Library friends groups

Library friends groups are for anyone who wants to get involved and support their local library.

Friends groups can help to:

  • support and promote their library and the services it offers

  • raise money through fundraising and applying for grant funding

  • enhance the programme of local events and activities

  • encourage community groups to use library facilities

  • develop services that benefit local communities

Friends groups work with us to develop library services that are relevant to the local community. They help grow the network of library friends groups.

Many groups begin with a small number of people and grow over time. Even a small group can make a positive difference.

If you want to become a library friend or set up a new group, we can give you information, support and guidance.

Join a friends group

To become a library friend, check whether your local library already has a friends group:

Set up a new friends group

If you want to set up a friends group, contact libraries&communities@lancashire.gov.uk.

To get started, you will need to:

  • speak to a member of library staff and anyone in the community who would like to join

  • arrange an informal meeting to gather interest and recruit members

  • agree to the Friends of Lancashire Libraries constitution and terms of reference

  • set up a committee and appoint people to the roles of chair, secretary and treasurer

  • agree how often meetings will take place and how to keep a record of the discussion

  • set up a bank account and agree who will act as signatories

  • work with Lancashire library staff to agree shared aims and objectives