If you've ever stayed up until 2 a.m. to finish the last page...
If you've ever cuddled up with a child to read a story...
If you've ever had a library card in your pocket...
You're not just a lover of books, you could be a library's Friend.
The Friends of the City of Mesa Library (FCML) group helps make a great library even better.

 The Alternative Fiscal Year '06/07 budget for Mesa, Arizona was released on October 6, 2005 and among many disturbing cuts to vital public programs and social services on the agenda were following items appearing under lines 20 and 21 of the "Community Services Department" section:

* Reduce hours of the Dobson Branch Library to eventual closure over a 12 to 18 month period.
* Reduce hours of the Red Mountain Branch Library to eventual closure over a 12 to 18 month period.

The proposed cuts would result in only one remaining library for a city that ranks as the 40th most populous municipality in the United States. Mesa is a large, family centered community made up of over 450,000 residents spread out over 170 square miles. Mesa is larger than the cities of Miami, Atlanta, St. Louis, and Pittsburgh. These proposed cuts would increase traffic at an already crowded Main branch, produce transportation issues for library patrons with limited resources and reduce access to a vital source of information.

What is a Friend?
Friends of the Library help bring special events and educational programs to the library. Without the support of Friends, these activities might not happen:

• Children's Reading Programs
• Book Discussion Groups
• Lectures
• Library Advocacy
• Exhibits
• Special Projects
• Replacing lost or damaged books
  
  If you believe these programs are valuable, make sure they continue in your library by becoming a Friend. Get involved by donating your time, your money, or both.

Benefits of Membership

• Invitations to special members-only events and previews
• Newsletter highlighting current news and issues (for the Friends and Library both) and upcoming special events
• The knowledge that you are supporting an essential resource for a vital community
• Free membership for active Library volunteers who have 100 volunteer hours in prior year
  
  Click here to become a member today. For more information about the Friends of the City of Mesa Library, call Kathee Herbstreit, Volunteer Coordinator, 480-644-4638 or send your comments or questions to the Friends at info@mesalibraryfriends.org.