In a world of decreasing resources and increasing needs, the library service needs its friends. Over half the population use public libraries to borrow books and other materials, find information, assist them in educational courses, use the internet or browse and sit and read. It is important that library users can express their support for this important service, and that they have the opportunity to influence its development.

Friends groups may offer practical help to the library in a variety of ways but it is equally important that we can talk to you about our plans for the future.  

Activities

• To form a committee to meet regularly and plan a programme of events

• To help publicise and promote the library service

• To hold reading related events with guest speakers

• To raise money for special projects at their library

• To provide voluntary support when needed for Friends' activities, book sales, customer surveys and other library events

• To offer a community response to service development and changes

Benefits

• One free loan of a DVD, video or CD for every three hired  

• Admission to Friends events

• The chance to meet Dorset library staff and discuss the service

• To contribute your opinion to service development and change

Why not join your local Friends group?

For a small fee per year you can become a Friend of your library. A joint membership (pdf, 173kb) (opens in a new window) is also available for two persons living at the same address.

There are currently Friends Groups at:

• Christchurch and Highcliffe

• Colehill Friends Group

• Crossways 

• Sherborne

• Friends of Weymouth Library (opens in a new window)

• Upton

• Burton Bradstock
• Corfe Mullen
• Lytchett Matravers
• Puddletown
• Stalbridge
• Wyke Regis

Please contact your local library if you would like to join one of the friends groups.