Helping Friends Build Resilience

Providing a nexus for the exchange of information, ideas, and experience among Friends of the Library groups in North Carolina.

Friends of North Carolina Public Libraries

Welcome Friends

Friends of North Carolina Public Libraries (FONCPL)—our statewide volunteer Friends of the Library organization—provides a network for sharing ideas and resources to strengthen Friends of the Library and thereby strengthen our public libraries statewide.  Our fine public libraries serve all North Carolinians, providing myriad programs and services for people of all ages—from infants to senior citizens and everybody in between.  "There is beauty and purpose in the work of all the people who direct or support public library service in North Carolina, and since 1980 FONCPL has been an enthusiastic advocate for their efforts," says  Regina Gale Dozier, former FONCPL Director.

Grants & Awards

  • Challenge Grants
    The FONCPL Board is awarding Challenge Grants of up to $250.  Up to $250 may be requested for any project or program that aligns with the mission and purpose of the Friends group and which directly benefits the Friends.  Award funds may NOT be used to purchase goods or services for the library or library system. See the August newsletter for more details. If you are interested in applying for a grant, fill out the application located on our Challenge Grant webpage.
  • Friends Workshops
    The FONCPL Board is offering a $100 grant to Friends groups that agree to host a regional Friends workshop in 2026.  To qualify, each group must invite a minimum of 6 other Friends groups.  See the September 2025 newsletter for pictures from the recent workshop held by the Stanly County friends.  If you are interested in hosting your own workshop, reach out to Billie Lawson.

 

Current Happenings

The February 2026 Newsletter has been posted to the website. Things to note:

  • It's time to renew your FONCPL membership!
  • Ideas for Celebrating America's 250th Birthday
  • More on MOUs
  • AI use in Library Programming
  • Genealogy with AI
  • Youth & Teen Reading Importance
  • Censorship News
  • General Dollar Literacy Foundation Grant Info
  • and so much more....
  • Deadline for the next edition is 2/25/26. Send your material to editor Judy Hills

What's New or News

  • MOU Policy Statement
    Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) are a hot topic in North Carolina Libraries at the moment.  The FONCPL has issued a policy statement regarding our stance and suggestions regarding these contracts.  Click Here to read our policy.
  • 2026 Renewals
    It's that time of year - time to renew your membership in the Friends of the North Carolina Public Libraries.  Click Here for the group membership form.  Click Here for the individual membership form.
  • Join NC-Friends listserv.  This NC State Library listserv is for those interested in Friends-related activities and public library service. To join: https://statelibrarync.simplelists.com/
    To send a message via the listserv:
    nc-fol@statelibrarync.simplelists.com
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