The Friends of Lake Forest Library operates exclusively for charitable, educational, civic and literary activities. The Friends purpose is to establish closer relations between the citizens of Lake Forest and the Library; shall endeavor to create an awareness of the facilities and services of the Library among the citizenry and promote the use thereof; and may give physical and financial support to the Lake Forest Library.
The Friends is a charitable organization and is exempt from Federal Taxation as described by section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, amended.
The Friends of Lake Forest Library was founded March 20, 1976 by a small group of residents. This group held the first Used Book Sale on Saturday, September 18, 1976 in the Library Courtyard and Lobby. Deemed a success, the sale profits were about $4000, and plans were put in place to make the book sale an annual event. Over the years, the sale was moved from the library, to the Gorton parking lot across the street, to Market Square, and finally to its current location at West Park in Lake Forest. The sale continues to grow each year with more books available and more shoppers, resulting in greater proceeds. Since its inception, the Friends have raised and contributed more than $800,000 to the library. Now, an annual Lake Forest tradition, the Festival of Books Used book sale offers over 85 categories of high quality used books at bargain prices.
The book sale is dependent on book donations, members and volunteers:
- Book donations are accepted year-round at the back of the library.
- Arrangements for local pick ups of larger donations can be made by calling the library at 847-234-0636.
- Volunteers sort and price books throughout the year and the week of the sale.
- Become a member of the Friends of Lake Forest Library.
