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