Honoring library Friends on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

As we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we are reminded of the incredible power of service and community that Dr. King so deeply believed in. His legacy of justice, equality, and giving back continues to inspire us to work together for the greater good. As Dr. King famously said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” Volunteering at your local library is one powerful way to answer that call, and this year, the Fulton County Library System’s Friends groups have truly exemplified Dr. King’s ideals through their dedication and service.

In 2024, 414 Friends donated 21,953+ hours across the Library System. 84 new Friends contributed, bringing fresh energy and ideas to support our libraries, while 20 Friends celebrated 20+ years of service, showcasing the long-term dedication of so many volunteers. There are now 22 official Friends groups supporting library branches  across Fulton County, including new groups at Cascade, Ocee, and Wolf Creek

The Friends groups’ are an integral part of our library system, organizing book sales, fundraising campaigns, and advocating for essential resources. These funds support a wide range of library services at specific branches, from literacy programs to special initiatives. Friends groups worked diligently to encourage year-end giving and to advocate for the library’s budget at Fulton County Board of Commissioners meetings, helping to ensure that libraries remain well-supported in 2025.

In addition to their efforts in fundraising, Friends groups also served as advocates for libraries. During National Friends of Libraries Week, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners recognized  Friends groups with a Proclamation, highlighting their vital contributions to the Library System.

Dr. King’s call to action encourages us all to think about how we can give back to our communities, and there are countless ways to do so. Whether it’s helping at a library event, advocating for better library resources, or participating in fundraising efforts, your time and effort can make a lasting difference. The collective impact of volunteers, such as the incredible members of Fulton County’s Friends groups, is a powerful reminder of the change we can create when we work together. Want to join in? Learn more about Friends groups here and volunteering with the Library System here

“Everybody can be great… because anybody can serve.” -MLK