The Friends of HCL is committed to a future where public funds support a strong library system, private funds elevate our libraries to a premier level, and our community’s love of libraries ensures library excellence for generations to come. Over the years our advocacy efforts have included running the successful referendum campaign in 2000 that raised $140,000,000 for capital improvements, playing a key role in advocating for the merger of the Hennepin and Minneapolis systems in 2008, and participating in legislative actions for increased public support of libraries across the State.
The Friends of HCL advocacy efforts, in partnership with the Library and civic leaders, have secured hundreds of millions of dollars in increased public support for libraries. We are fortunate to work with a County and Library Boards which value strong libraries in our community, and look forward to continued work with our public officials to ensure a strong future for our Library.
How can you help?
Funding and support for our Library is complex and ever-changing. For people interested in maintaining and strengthening public support for the Library, here are four ways to stay informed and make a difference:
Receive advocacy alerts in our e-newsletter
Like us on facebook/friendsofhcl
Follow us on twitter @hclfriends
Membership in the Friends of HCL is vitally important to show strong private support for the Library and its services. A large membership demonstrates a depth of commitment by the community that helps secure further public support.
The advocacy committee of the Friends of HCL Board of Directors monitors County budget and other topics pertaining to the Hennepin County Library, as well as tracks state and national issues that may affect the Library. The committee will regularly update members, other supporters, and the community at-large about advocacy issues, particularly during the latter part of each year as Library budget discussions are underway.
If you have questions or concerns about our advocacy program, or would like to get involved further, please contact our executive director, Stu Wilson, at swilson@hclib.org or 612-543-8105.