Role of Friends of the Thunder Bay Public Library in the funding ecosystem
Friends of the Thunder Bay Public Library is a registered charity created in 1987 and made up of community volunteers who promote and support public library service in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Operating alongside the Thunder Bay Public Library (TBPL), the Friends raise and distribute funds to enhance collections, services and facilities beyond what the regular municipal library budget can cover.
Since its inception, the organization has raised over $1 million for TBPL. Its donations have been used to purchase books, board games and eBooks, as well as to contribute to major capital projects such as the Mary J.L. Black Library. The Friends focus their financial support on strengthening library resources and infrastructure that directly benefit local residents.
Funding activities and sources of revenue
The Friends generate revenue through several ongoing activities, including running a used bookstore at the library, organizing special book sales and events, and participating in bingos through the Superior Shores Gaming Association. They also accept donations of gently used books and media, which are sold to create additional funds for the library. All donated materials become the property of the Friends, who decide how best to use or dispose of them.
Funds raised are directed to TBPL to acquire equipment and materials not available through the regular budget and to support projects identified in collaboration with the library. While there is no public grant application process for external organizations, the Friends function as a dedicated funding and support body for the Thunder Bay Public Library system.
Governance, volunteers and community impact
The association is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that meets regularly and designates convenors for core activities such as membership, the bookstore and bingo. Membership is open to community members who wish to volunteer in areas like home service delivery, special events, book sales and committee work. By combining volunteer engagement with targeted financial contributions, the Friends help ensure that library collections, programs and facilities remain responsive to community needs and accessible to all.