CE Project Agreement for V-C-2 (001)

Start a Friends of the Library Group

Word version of this document

Purpose: Learn the purpose and how to start a Friends Group

Core skill: V-C-2 Leverage community support, including trustees and library groups, to build support for public libraries at the local, state and national level.

Eligible participants: Librarians and trustees

Repeatable?: No

Do you want help from a CKLS consultant?
___ No help needed.
___ Yes, modify project agreement
___ Yes, suggest other readings or learning
___ Yes, early preparation visit
___ Yes, one-on-one coaching through activity
___ Yes, other: _______________________________

Learning component: Attend a workshop or read the following materials.

• How to start a Friends Group by Friends of Kansas Libraries at http://www.fokl.net/?page_id=12


• Starting a Friends Group by Friends of Libraries U.S.A. at http://www.folusa.org/resources/pdf-versions/fact-sheet-1.pdf


• $150 start up grant by Friends of Kansas Libraries at http://www.fokl.net/?page_id=11


• Sample constitution by Friends of Kansas Libraries at http://www.fokl.net/?page_id=13


• Sample bylaws by Friends of Libraries U.S.A. at http://www.fokl.net/?p=16


• Online video on applying for 501(c)(3) tax exemption at http://tinyurl.com/nfkm4y


• Optional help: How to obtain 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status for your non-profit organization by Nolo at http://tinyurl.com/mz6jd7


• Optional help: IRS FAQ about obtaining tax-exempt status:


• General questions at http://tinyurl.com/n8o5m3


• Questions specific to application form 1023 at http://tinyurl.com/lt4m63


• Optional help: IRS instructions for filling out application for 501(c)(3) status at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1023.pdf


• Optional help: IRS application form for 501(c)(3) status at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1023.pdf


• Optional help: Online help for filling of a 501(c)(3) application form at http://tinyurl.com/nztakh


• Optional help: Role of the Friends Board at http://www.folusa.org/resources/pdf-versions/fact-sheet-10.pdf


• Optional help: Web site of Friends of Kansas Libraries (FOKL) at http://www.fokl.net/ offers $150 start up grants, 12 steps for starting a group, challenge grants, a sample constitution, sample by-laws, advice for getting and keeping members.


• Optional help: Friends of Libraries U.S.A. at http://www.folusa.org/index.php offers advice on running a friends group, grants and raising money, starting a friends foundation, planned giving, getting and keeping members, ideas on book sales, fundraising, membership, programs, etc.

Library work component:

1. To receive CE credit, submit the following


• Bylaws or Constitution


• List of new officers


• Brochure for membership drive describing the purpose of the group, etc.


• List of goals for upcoming year