FRIENDS Mission Statement:

The Friends of the Newark Free Library is a non-profit organization that provides volunteer and financial support to the Newark Free Library to enhance its ability to serve our community.

Our accomplishments:

• Continuous financial and personnel support for the FNFL Capital campaign in support of the new library, securing state and county funding, and $250,000 in waived building permit fees from the City of Newark!

• Contributed monetary support for cultural and music programs many people would otherwise not have access to including the Copeland String Quartet, which consists of members of the Delaware Symphony Orchestra, the all-female Coda Brass Quintet, Brazilian Jazz Duo Minas, piano and violin concerts, the First State Ringers, and the Deltones.

• Supported children/adult drama programs including Pillow Plays by the Wilmington Drama League and Delaware Shakespeare’s first performance at the library

• Funded entertainment for the library's 50th Anniversary Celebration

• Participated in Newark Community Days and the City of Newark Halloween Parade, distributing over 1000 free children/adult books.

• In 2024-25, the Friends contributed nearly $38,000 in support of the Newark Library programs and endeavors.