Vision
The Friends of Mt. Lebanon Public Library have a common concern for the Library's active participation
in the community. We firmly believe good library services are an essential part of everyone's
intellectual enrichment. The Friends create public support and assistance for expanding library programs
and encourage gifts, endowments and memorials to the library.
Mission
The Friends advocate for Mt. Lebanon Public Library’s objective of providing patrons an inclusive, welcoming
environment of intellectual enrichment, creativity and enjoyment, and a forum to exchange ideas by
offering top-tier programs, materials, services, and community support.
Purpose
The Friends of Mt. Lebanon Public Library is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that raises funds, presents programs,
supports special projects, helps create specialized spaces, and purchases supplemental materials and equipment for the Library. We expand Library resources to best serve the community, and help amplify Library messaging about programs, services, collections, and technologies.
The Friends support the Mt. Lebanon Public Library’s collective impact as a community partner addressing literacy, education, employment, equity, health care, arts and leisure, and the digital divide.
How You Can Help
The Friends enrich Mt. Lebanon Library services through financial sand human capital support of projects and initiatives beyond the funding scope of local, regional and state governmental agencies.
Membership
A minimum donation of $15 is all that’s required to join the Friends.
As a member, you’ll receive the Friends quarterly newsletter, monthly event notices of upcoming activities and invitations to special events with the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference in our community.
Volunteering
In 2024, Friends ### volunteers provided approximately #,### hours of service and are vital to the support we provide the Library. Volunteers can start contributing with as little as a four hour monthly commitment. Opportunities include:
The Book Cellar
The used book store in the lower level of the Library is operated by the Friends and is staffed by volunteers. All proceeds benefit the Library.
Volunteering at The Book Cellar or one of our quarterly book sale drives is a fun and rewarding way to support the
Library while interacting with fellow book lovers. Whether you’re assisting customers, organizing merchandise, or
helping with setup and cleanup, your time and energy make a significant difference. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity
o discover hidden literary treasures and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for books and
community service.
The Friends also maintain a The Book Cellar: Online Shopify storefront which features newer, higher value, gift quality
for sale. Orders are fulfilled within 2-4 business days and new items are added weekly. Order pick-up is in person at
the Upper Library Circulation Desk. Details are on the site.
Sorter
If you’re looking for a more sustained commitment, consider volunteering with the Friends on a regular basis where you’ll forge lasting friendships, develop new skills, and make a tangible impact on the cultural landscape of Mt. Lebanon.
Volunteers play a crucial role in operation of The Book Cellar, including sorting, categorizing, and pricing all of the
patron donations the Friends accept on behalf of the Library. As a Sorter, you’ll help ensure that each item finds its
rightful place, maximizing its potential to generate revenue for the Library. Whether you’re an avid reader with a keen
eye for quality or someone who enjoys organizing and categorizing, sorting donations is a valuable way to contribute
your time and expertise.
Donations
Donating your items is a simple, yet impactful, way to support literacy and promote the joy of reading throughout Mt. Lebanon. Donations are accepted at the end of the long hallway on the lower level of the Library. Please place your donations on the red cart(s).
We gratefully accept: Gently used books (hardcover & paperback), periodicals/magazines >current issue, saleable media (DVDs/CDs/vinyl records/audio books), puzzles, games, greeting/post cards, journals, gift items, fine art, and jewelry. All donated material should be in sellable condition - clean with nominal highlighting, underlining, or writing in the margins.
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept: Books with condition issues (broken spines, missing covers, mold, mildew, stains, odor, or excessive writing/underlining inside), encyclopedia sets, textbooks >5 years old, VHS/Cassette tapes and business/computer, travel, test prep & reference guides >2 years old.