A Brief HIstory of the Friends of the Lake Worth Library

The Friends of the Lake Worth Library was founded on April 10, 1988 when Dorothy Ruth, a member of the Library Board for the City of Lake Worth, convinced two of her friends, Sue Bean and Jean Barus that the Lake Worth Library needed a support organization.

In the original articles of incorporation, they wrote that the object of the Friends of the Lake Worth Library:

. . . shall be to assist in the promotion and development of the public library facilities in the city of Lake Worth, Florida, as well as to encourage the use of such facilities; the corporation shall endeavor to enlist the interest and support of all who are dedicated to the dissemination of knowledge through the printed word and to publicize library functions, facilities, and resources.

The first meeting was held on May 18, 1988 with local dignitaries such as City Manager John Kelly, Mayor Ralph Schenck, LIbrary Director Denise Wittlin, and Executive Board Member for Florida Public Library Association Sarah Gay all contributing.  

During this meeting Mayor Schenck read a proclamation recognizing this important event, and Sarah Gay who was also at the President of the Friends of Palm Springs Library was honored for all the assistance she and the Friends of Palm Springs Library provided in the organization of The Friends of the Lake Worth Library.

Through the years, The Friends of the Lake Worth Library have:

• Participated in the annual Lake Worth Christmas Parade by dressing as "walking books" and carrying a banner with the slogan:  The Lake Worth Library:  There is Something in it for you!,

• Raised funds by selling canvas book bags

• Hosted fundraising events in the library such as Lovers Among the Covers: A Literary Affair and Undercover at the Library:  An Evening of Intrigue.

Funds raised by these projects have gone towards purchasing furnishings, equipment, and upgrades outside the Library's budget.