A rich history of membership
Our Story
In the fall of 1953 a group of Lake Wales citizens met to develop a plan to bring publicly funded library service to our community. These individuals set into motion a series of events that culminated in city funding for public library service. From this first group of library advocates the Lake Wales Library Association was born. Since 1953 the Lake Wales Library Association—Friends of the Library have continued their efforts to provide: financial gifts, raise funds for capital projects, political advocacy and volunteer assistance to the Lake Wales Public Library
Why become a Member?
Few non-profit organizations can claim that 100% of membership dollars received are used to support the operation of a service. The Lake Wales Library Association can. All donations, memberships, memorials or gifts from wills or trusts are used to support the programs and services provided by the Lake Wales Public Library. Membership in our organization results in excellent public library service to our community.
Here’s what Friends do…
Raising funds to build the first Lake Wales Public Library in 1960 and to expand the library in 1991.
Underwriting the cost of library summer programs for children, teens and adults.
Providing adult lifelong learning classes, scholarly speakers, author programs and concerts.
Funding for library staff training and development.
Purchasing new books, eBooks and digital content for the Lake Wales Public Library’s collection.
Digitizing early Lake Wales newspapers and archives.
How can you be a Friend?
JOIN: Every dollar of membership dues supports the Lake Wales Public Library’s programs and services.
LEGACY: Consider including the Lake Wales Library Association—Friends of the Library in your estate planning. A one-time gift for the development of a trust to be utilized for decades provides a significant impact.
SPONSOR: A sponsorship of programs or events by your business or family directs your gift to a specific cause you have an interest in.
VOLUNTEER: Volunteer for a single event or for tasks to assist the library’s staff on a scheduled basis.
“The Lake Wales Library Association has focused on the needs of the users and staff of the Lake Wales Public Library for over six decades resulting in a public library that is much more than a lending library, it’s a valuable component of Lake Wales’ quality of life.”
— Jodie D. Schmidt, President, Lake Wales Library Assoc.
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
lwlibraryassociation@gmail.com
Phone
(863)678-4004