775 N Greenfield Rd Gilbert AZ 85234
Friends Place Book Store
Store hours: Monday through Saturday 10:00-4:00
'Second hand books are wild
books, homeless books; they have come together in vast flocks of variegated feather, and have a charm which the domesticated volumes of the library lack" - Virginia Wolfe.
Who are we?
Since 1968 Friends has been an active community volunteer group. At first it was known as the Gilbert Library Association. Then Friends of the Gilbert Library and since 1999, Friends of the Southeast Regional Library. In 2007 we extended our support to the Perry Branch Library at 1965 Queen Creek Rd in the Town of Gilbert.
What are we?
We are a tax exempt charitable organization, who support our two local libraries, promote literacy in children and adults, and expand the presence of the libraries for the benefit of the community. We also promote and encourage volunteering.
Where does the money go?
The profits from Friends Place book store, finance additional library services that are not part of the general library budget. The summer reading program has historically received the majority of the funds. Funding is also given to Laubach Literacy for adult ESL and citizenship classes. Adult volunteers are always needed for these classes and training is provided. For more information email: mesaliteracy@yahoo.com
Each year we also award up to ten $1,000 scholarships to qualifying High School Seniors who reside in the Town of Gilbert. For more information regarding scholarships please contact Friends Place book store.
How do we do this?
Our volunteers provide over 5,200 hours each year and with the community book and media donation, Friends Place raises thousands of dollars for our two libraries. We also apply for a $3,000 grant from the Books for Arizona Libraries allowing us to provide books to Title 1 schools and smaller libraries.
Membership, Donations, Adult and Teen volunteering
Membership is always welcome and provides benefits. Click on the membership information or ask at the store desk.
Donation tax papers are given at the desk. You, the donor estimate your credit.
Books considered unsellable due to content or condition are given to the School for the Blind's mulching project for profit.
Want to volunteer? Teens need to be 15. Adults need to commit to at least two hour per week. More information needed? Call Donna Petersen at 480-840-1318 or email her at 4friendsofserl@cox.net.