Friends of the Greenville County Library System

Jeff Holland entertains with an interactive drum performance at the 2019 Summer Reading Kickoff event.

By 1960, the cost of books had doubled since the Library first opened its doors in 1921, but the Library had been unable to increase the annual budget to purchase new books and repair worn-out materials. In addition, the Library longed to expand branch facilities and bookmobile services for its rapidly growing community.

On November 17, 1960, the Friends of the Greenville County Library System, a non-profit organization, was created to provide volunteer and financial support. Arthur Magill, the first President of the Friends, focused initial efforts on proposing remedies to the Library's immediate needs as well as working to raise public awareness. The Friends were instrumental in helping to establish a County-wide library with the City and County library being consolidated in 1961.

2009 Sidewalk Sale, Hughes Main Library

Throughout the years, the Friends' fundraising efforts, including Friends Used Book Sales, have made it possible to hire outside presenters and performers for Summer Reading events as well as featured speakers and local authors for the Library's Local Author Expo. When the Five Forks Branch opened in March of 2018, the Friends purchased a laptop lending kiosk where patrons can “borrow” a laptop for use during their visit to the location.

The Friends’ fundraising efforts are a labor of love, performed by volunteers who believe in the Library System’s work. Learn more about support and membership opportunities at greenvillelibrary.org/friends.

Friends Shop, Hughes Main Library