The Friends: Giving Back to the Community

Beginning with the first book drive in 1962, which became the nucleus of the library, to donating $60,000 to the 1984 library expansion, the Friends of the Troy Public Library have consistently delivered quality programming for over 55 years!

Friends funding keeps the library relevant in the digital age and enriches the Troy community. Participating in numerous partnerships and outreach projects set the Friends as a leader amongst its peers.

The Friends were recognized in February 2021 as a nominee of The Troy Chamber of Commerce’ Nonprofit Excellence Award.

Contribution Highlights

Programs for Children, Teens, and Adults

• Summer Reading, year-round reading programs, and book groups
• Cultural, educational, and enrichment programs on a range of topics for every interest
• Visiting author presentations – including Elizabeth Berg, Chris Bohjalian, Colin Wright, Lisa See, and Gerald Posner

Outreach

• Presence and book giveaways at Winter Wonderland and Troy Daze
• Booth at the Troy Farmers Market
• Book donations to local and international charities and groups:
  • Haven Shelter
  • St. Vincent DePaul Society
  • Troy Community Center
  • Troy Boys & Girls Club
  • Teach For America
  • VA hospitals and veterans groups
  • Schools in the Metro Detroit Area and overseas

Technology Enhancements

• Mobile laptop cart for classes
• Digital microfilm/microfiche scanner and printer
• The Tech Farm, Early Learning computer stations, a Book Talk kiosk, and computers for Youth Services
• AV equipment for the Library Meeting Room
• Multi Disc Cleaning Machine in Tech Services
• Self check out DVD un-lockers

Donations of Special Collections

• Special Needs Collection
• Agatha Christie Book Collection

Library Enhancements

• New tables and chairs for the Meeting Room
• Lobby tables and chairs
• Shelving for AV in Adult Services
• Shelving and furniture for Teen area
• Rug for Youth Services area
• Craft Room makeover in Youth Services
• A $60,000 donation to library expansion in 1984

Advocacy

• Instrumental in a grassroots campaign to save the TPL from closure in 2010-11
• Donation to Library Needs Assessment Survey funding
• Provided input for the Needs Assessment report
• Participated in the 2013-2015 TPL Strategic Plan development process

Partnerships

• Kilgour Scottish Centre for special Outlander presentation and dinner
• FINRA – scholarship program for teens
• Meritor – donation of a Low Vision Collection
• Troy Community Affairs Department and Troy Ethnic Issues Advisory Board – Great Michigan Book Read, Farmers Market