Friends of the Library
In Belvidere, everyone who comes into the library is considered to be a friend. But Ida Public Library has special friends who join together to look after its interests in various ways. Our activities are funded from membership dues and the proceeds of used book sales. All are invited to become a Friend of Ida Public Library. They serve as a support group for the library.
Membership fees are as follows:
- Individual $5.00
- Family $10.00
- Associate $25.00
- Sustaining $50.00
- Patron $100.00
Membership forms are available at the Upstairs Check-Out desk.
Stop by the book cart near the main circulation desk that offers used books for sale by the Friends.
The Friends have four membership meetings a year: March, June (annual picnic), October and December (Christmas party). Directors elected from the membership chose officers and hold six other meetings during the year. All meetings are held at the library at 6:30 pm on the Third Thursday of the month.
As a goodwill ambassador for the library, we have put on special events such as local author receptions and fun programs on topics such as World War II, FDR, and the Chicago Fire.
As a support group, we offer assistance for on-going library activities such as the summer reading and computer programs for children and young adults. We honor library employees with a Staff Appreciation Lunch and have provided amenities such as wall pictures and meeting room equipment. We occasionally give direct financial support to the library with periodic, unspecified donations. Through these gifts, the Friends have made many contributions to the library’s collections of books, audio and video tapes, software, and many other items.
Our funds primarily come from membership dues and sales of used books. We collect books donated by the public year-around and sell them from our book cart and at our twice-annual book sales.
Please contact Library Director Mindy Long at 815-544-3838 for any other questions about the Friends.