Welcome to the Friends of the Library!
The Friends of the Library group is dedicated to supporting our local public library and promoting literacy and education in our community. Join us in our mission to enhance library services and programs for everyone!
Why be a Friend?
Support Literacy: Help promote reading and learning opportunities for all ages.
Community Engagement: Participate in events and activities that bring our community together.
Advocacy: Be a voice for the library and advocate for its needs and services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Get involved through various volunteer roles that suit your interests.
How to Get Involved
Becoming a member of the Friends of the Library is easy!
You can:
Sign up for a membership online or at the library.
Attend our monthly meetings to share your ideas and talents.
Volunteer for library events and fundraisers.
Event Calendar
Books and Materials Donations
Have books that are taking up space? Finished those movies, and need space for more? We take donations of materials any time that the library is open
One-time donations
One-time monetary donations can be made to the Friends through our donorview portal
Memorial / Tribute Gifts
Memorial Donations can also be made through Donorview
Kroger Rewards
Support the Friends of the Library every time you shop at Kroger! Use our link to sign up!
Who We Are
The Friends of the Clarkston Independence District Library is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening the Clarkston Independence District Library.
We are readers, neighbors, parents, retirees, students, professionals, and lifelong learners who believe a strong library builds a strong community. Our members share a commitment to literacy, access to information, and creating welcoming spaces where people of all ages can learn, connect, and grow.
Whether you join to volunteer, attend events, or simply support the mission through membership, you are part of a vibrant and caring community
Our History
The Friends organization was formed in 2008 by community members who recognized that a thriving library depends not only on public funding, but also on engaged supporters. Through decades of dedication, volunteers and members have funded library materials, technology, programming, furnishings, and special initiatives that enrich the experience for thousands of residents each year. From book sales to special events, from advocacy efforts to hands-on volunteerism, our impact continues to grow alongside our community.
What We Do
Through memberships, donations, sponsorships, and our popular book sales, we raise funds that directly support:
Library programs for children, teens, and adults including:
Summer Reading
Battle of the Books
Trunk or Treat
Special performances and events
Technology and innovation space enhancements
Collection enrichment
Bike racks & furniture
Every membership and every volunteer hour makes a tangible difference!
Board Members
President - Becky Perry
President Elect -
Secretary - Linda Reiter Welch
Treasurer - Missy Huntoon
Membership Chairperson - Marion Barran
Public Relations Chair - Julie Meyer
Library Liaison - Linda Reiter Welch
Member-At-Large - JoAnne Broda
Member-At-Large - Judy Hayes
Member-At-Large - Micah Jelinek
Member-At-Large - Cathy Heleski
Ex Officio - Julie Meredith (Library Director)
Ex Officio - Kelly Walbridge (Volunteer & Engagement Specialist)
Member Benefits
As a member of the Friends, you will be on the list! And that list means that you be opted into the following:
Newsletter / Email announcements
Early access to book sales
Input into and voting on on library wishlists
You will also have Volunteer opportunities, like
Book Sorter
Book Sale assistant
Little Free Libraries stocking
Lobby Carts maintenance
Trunk or Treat worker
Sign-up before book sales or contact friends@cidlibrary.org
Membership Levels
When you become a Friend, there are multiple levels and time frames that you wil be able to choose from
One Year Memberships:
Individual ( $15.00 )
Family ( $25.00 )
Student (ages 13-25) ( $7.50 )
Senior (60+) ($7.50 )
Lifetime Memberships:
Individual ( $150.00 )
Family ( $250.00 )
Volunteering
Book Sales: set up/take down of book display arrangement, cashier, or floor attendant
Book Sorting: group donated books into genres for Book Sales-drop in during library hours
Lobby Carts: replenish stock
Little Free Libraries: monitor and maintain stock-weekly or fill in positions
Newsletter: photograph CIDL programs and events-camera provided
Trunk or Treat
Marketing & Communications
Volunteer Call to Action - Email friends@cidlibrary.org
The Friendly News
We produce a newsletter in the fall and spring of every year, detailing many of the things we do. Click this link to read our most recent newsletter!
Board Meetings
Board meets monthly on the 2nd Thursday at 7pm in the Library's Conference Room. All are welcome to join.
Membership Meeting Dates
For 2026, the Membership meets on April 16 & October 15 at 7pm in the Community Meeting Room.
General Membership Meetings
Twice each year—in April and October—the Friends of the Clarkston Independence District Library gather for our General Membership Meeting. These meetings are an important opportunity for all Friends members to connect, learn, and help guide our impact.
At each meeting:
The Library shares its current “wish list” of programs, materials, and enhancements where Friends funding can make a difference.
Members have the opportunity to ask questions, provide input, and vote on how funds will be allocated.
The Friends Treasurer presents a financial report, offering transparency into fundraising results and spending.
Updates from recent book sales highlight the incredible work of our volunteers and the impact of community support.
Library staff provide an engaging presentation on topics ranging from new services and technology to upcoming initiatives and community trends.
Our October meeting also includes the presentation of the Friend of the Year Award, recognizing an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to our organization and the Library. Beyond the business of the meeting, these gatherings are a time to enjoy light refreshments, connect with fellow supporters, and share ideas. Every member is encouraged to attend—your voice helps shape how we support the Clarkston Independence District Library and serve our community.