Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Friends of the Richmond Library Society (FOL)

Friends of the Richmond Library Society (FOL) is a community‑based non‑profit organization that has supported public library services in Richmond, British Columbia since 1972. Formed by members of the University Women’s Club of Richmond, the society was created to focus public attention on the library, stimulate use of its resources, encourage gifts and bequests, and support the freedom to read. Over the decades, Friends has become a key fundraising and advocacy partner for Richmond Public Library (RPL).

FOL raises money primarily through semi‑annual and special used book sales, sidewalk sales and a small retail bookstore. These popular community events provide low‑cost reading material while generating revenue that is channelled directly into library‑related projects. The organization also organizes member activities such as author talks, cultural outings and book clubs that reinforce community engagement with the library.

According to the society’s own history, Friends has donated in excess of half a million dollars to Richmond Library programs, projects and equipment. Examples cited include purchasing the first computer and boardroom table for the library and designating funds for book club collections. The group has periodically presented large cheques to RPL from the proceeds of its sales, including recent contributions of tens of thousands of dollars.

Friends has also supported capital and long‑term funding initiatives. In 1991 it contributed $60,000 to the building fund for the Library/Cultural Centre, and it used a Vancouver Foundation “Challenge” grant to help establish an endowment fund benefiting RPL. The organization continues to contribute to this endowment and to a similar fund held at the Richmond Foundation, providing ongoing financial support for library services and literacy‑related activities.

The primary beneficiary of FOL’s funding is Richmond Public Library and, through it, the residents of Richmond. Funds raised are used for library programs, special projects, equipment purchases and other enhancements that may fall outside regular municipal budgets. Friends has also run services such as a children’s print library and book delivery for people who are housebound, and it regularly assists with events such as Chinese New Year and Canada Day celebrations at the library.

While FOL does not operate open, competitive grant programs, it functions as a discretionary funding body channelling community donations and book‑sale revenues into library and literacy initiatives. Other communities sometimes consult Friends for ideas on organizing similar support societies, illustrating its influence within the wider network of “Friends of the Library” groups across North America.