Submitted by
Nadine Romano-Ritche
NEWBURYPORT – The Friends of the Newburyport Public Library (FOL) announced the launch of their 2026 membership renewal and recruitment campaign following a highly successful year of community support.
With the help of loyal members and donors, the organization raised $42,579 through memberships, donations, the Annual Appeal, and spring and fall book sales this past year. In turn, the FOL provided $40,124 in funding for library programs and resources for 2024–2025, a 16 percent increase over the previous year.
These contributions made it possible for more than 10,000 community members of all ages to enjoy free access to engaging events, technology enhancements, and educational experiences at the Newburyport Public Library.
“We are deeply grateful to our supporters for making this impact possible,” said Stacey Brandon, FOL President. “Local support ensures that our library continues to be a thriving hub of culture, access, and lifelong learning for everyone.”
As libraries across the country face increasing budget pressure, community-backed organizations like the FOL play a crucial role in sustaining programs and services that residents rely on. Many of our library’s most popular offerings are funded entirely by the FOL, including:
- Museum Pass Program – More than 1,000 passes borrowed last year
- Kanopy Streaming Service – Over 9,000 films and documentaries viewed
- Upgraded audio-visual equipment for improved movie screenings
- Enhancements to the Children’s Room, including cozy acoustic graphic panels
Membership support also funds visiting speakers, enrichment programs, public technology upgrades, genealogical databases for ancestral research and other initiatives that help the library evolve with community needs.
The Friends of the Newburyport Public Library now invites the public to renew or begin a membership for 2026. Members enjoy exclusive benefits, including early Members’ Day access at book sales and invitations to Appreciation Events throughout the year. All contributions are tax-deductible, and personal information is never shared.
Memberships run annually January 1 through December 31. The organization also encourages gifting memberships during the holiday season as a meaningful way to share the gift of learning and community.
“Together, the FOL makes a difference every day at our public library,” said Stacey Brandon. “We hope you’ll join us to ensure Newburyport continues to enjoy a vibrant and well-resourced library for years to come.”
To join or renew your FOL membership for 2026, visit us at www.newburyportfol.org or stop by the library for a membership application.
The Friends of the Newburyport Public Library (FOL) is a separate, volunteer-run nonprofit organization that provides supplementary funding for selected library materials, programs and activities. FOL is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, so contributions to FOL are tax deductible. FOL does not share members’ information with other organizations.
