The Friends of the Oakland Public Library is an independent non-profit organization. Its mission is to advance the role of the Oakland Public Library (OPL) as a vital community resource.
Founded in 1950, the Friends of the OPL fulfills its mission through advocacy, fundraising, and volunteerism. The Friends raise money for the library through donations, membership dues from more than 900 individuals and households, and the operation of The Bookmark Bookstore in Old Oakland.
The Friends use these funds to make annual grants that support important programs and projects for the entire OPL system.
Visit the Friends of the OPL website to learn more, or to join!
Many branches also have a Branch Friends group -- volunteers who work together to support their neighborhood library. If you’d like to connect with your local Branch Friends, please ask a staff member at your branch.