Friends of the Library

Friends-with-2025-Big-Check-crop-SPR-RUM

Mission 

The Friends of the Anoka County Library raises funds for and increases awareness of Anoka County Library in its mission to connect community to ideas, information, and inspiration.

Meeting Schedule 

The Friends meet on the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Please check the calendar for location information.


2026 Book Sale Schedule: 

  • January 31 at Northtown Library (Blaine)
  • May 2 at Centennial Library (Circle Pines)
  • November 14 at Rum River Library (Anoka)

Authors Lorna Landvik, William Kent Krueger, Traci Lambrecht (PJ Tracy)

Save the Date! 2026 Evening with Friends & Authors Gala

  • Speakers: Lorna Landvik, William Kent Krueger, Traci Lambrecht (PJ Tracy)
  • Date: October 15, 2026
  • Location: Courtyards of Andover (13545 Martin St. NW, Andover, MN 55304)


Friends Activities 

The Friends are involved in a number of activities, including:

  • Hosting annual fundraisers
  • Hosting library programs and events
  • Supporting the Summer Reading Program 
  • Funding the Book Club-in-a-Bag collection for reading and discussion groups
  • Sponsoring the Reading Bridge program that supports struggling readers
  • Promoting the Anoka County libraries - some of the county’s most popular assets!

Why Join the Friends?

Your member dues and volunteerism help assure the library’s continued ability to offer special events and programs which enhance the library experience and enrich the lives of library users. Your active involvement will help the Anoka County Library system stimulate and inspire library patrons for many years to come.

Become a Board Member

Becoming a Friends’ board member is a great way to become a leader within the local community!  You can have an active part in organizing public support for the Library by developing services, activities, and programs. For more information on becoming a Friends’ board member, please email Erin Straszewski.

History of the Friends

In April 2003, local book enthusiasts joined together to create Friends of the Anoka County Library. The Friends are an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting library programs and services.