Building Relationships…Making Connections.
Dr. Charles Hanson, DirectorKettering University Library
Define the mission:What do you want (expect) from your Friends?
AdvocateSocial PlannerFundraiserVolunteersPublic Relations
Why does the library need Friends?To continuously improve the Library
and Archives.To promote connections with
administration, faculty, staff, and students.
To advance technologically.To preserve historical resources of
industry, business, and GMI/Kettering University history.
What does FOLA do?Host speaker series, gaming nights, and
special events for the Kettering University community and FOLA members.
Host receptions to show appreciation for Kettering students, faculty, and staff.
Organize the annual Book Sale and Silent Auction and member appreciation event.
What does FOLA do?Promote activities to highlight the services of
the Library and Archives (e.g., Chevrolet 100th Celebration, July 17-23, 2011).
Raise money to support the Library and Archives.
FOLA BenefitsFOLA members are permitted to check out
materials from the library.
Members may receive discounts on FOLA events and programs.
Friends receive a tax deductible receipt with their thank you letter.
FOLA Benefits
Friends are invited to “members only” events (Sodexo Food Services).
Friends can serve on committees or participate in sponsored activities (e.g., FOLA Fundraising Action Committee).
Key Offices and the Community
ConnectionsDevelopment OfficeOffice of Student LifeSodexoProvost OfficeFlint CommunityDirector of Greek Life
What has FOLA supported?Gaming NightReceptionsTechnology (Digital camera, Kindle, iPad2)Spinner RacksPaint the Pillar ContestLibrary CaféMemberships in ALTAFF, FOMLMarketing the library Fundraising (Book sale & Silent Auction, Flint
Home Tour)Float in the Flint Christmas ParadeDVD (GMI/Kettering University History)
FOLA Structure
Bylaws
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Strategic Plan
FOLA BoardMeets quarterly
Composed of faculty, alumni, staff, and students
Two committeesFinance &
FundraisingPublic Relations &
MarketingTask Forces
FOLA Speaker Series, etc
The Ten Commandmentsof a Successful Friends Group1. The library director must be in favor of a
friends group.2. The library staff must be willing to work
with Friends.3. All parties involved must realize that a time
commitment is involved and that a successful group is no accident.
4. The library must agree on which of its resources will be used by the Friends.
5. A committed core group must exist.From the Friends of the Marple Public Library, Broomall, PA
The Ten Commandmentsof a Successful Friends Group6. The authority to which the library director
reports must recognize the Friends group.7. Communication must be open to the full library
community.8. All those involved in the Friends must realize
that the Friends group does not make library policy.
9. The library must decide, in discussion with the Friends, the roles it wishes the group to play.
10.Money raised by the Friends should be disbursed by them as they see fit.
From the Friends of the Marple Public Library, Broomall, PA
10 Reasons Why an Academic LibraryMight Want a Friends Group1. Friends promote collaboration and
cooperation.2. Friends provide opportunities for
networking.3. Friends can assist with marketing and
promoting your library.4. Friends can offer opportunities for
fundraising.5. Friends can lift you up when you are down.
10 Reasons Why an Academic LibraryMight Want a Friends Group6. Friends can help you celebrate.7. Friends can speak (sometimes loudly) in
support of your library.8. Friends can maximize professional
development and involvement.9. Friends can provide a sense of pride and
accomplishment.10.The Friends mission is strongly aligned
with the academic library’s mission.
kettering.edu/library/fola.jsp
Friends on Campus Articles:ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/altaff/friendszone/friendsoncampus/index.cfm