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The Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library (MDPL) has been a cornerstone of support for the Miami-Dade Public Library System since its founding in 1974. Originally established by a small group of local advocates including such Miami luminaries as Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, the organization’s mission has always been to promote literacy, learning, and community engagement through sustained support of Miami-Dade’s local libraries. As the Friends of the MDPL approaches its 50th anniversary, it’s clear the organization’s commitment has only grown stronger, evolving over the years to meet the changing needs of Miami-Dade’s diverse community.
Beginnings and Impactful Advocacy
The 1970s marked a challenging period for Miami’s library system, with tight budgets impacting services and programs across the county. Recognizing the vital role libraries play in promoting education and inclusivity, the Friends emerged to advocate for public libraries’ value and needs. From its early days, the group organized fundraisers and book drives, helping to fund new acquisitions, facility improvements, and children’s programs.
During the 1980s, when MDPL faced significant funding cuts, the Friends group played a major role in rallying community and political support to protect the system. This advocacy helped cement the organization as a steadfast supporter of the Miami-Dade library system, with fundraising events and awareness campaigns to drive both immediate and long-term benefits.
Programs and Fundraising Initiatives
One of the hallmark contributions of the Friends is its fundraising initiatives, which support vital library programs and bring unique learning opportunities to the community. In recent years, the Friends has supported initiatives including: the Financial Literacy adult learning series, the Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida patch program, the annual bookmark and library-card design contests, the local author fair, the summer reading competition, a variety of sensory-friendly inclusive programs in conjunction with Autism Acceptance Month, and the Library’s Vasari Project.
In addition, the Friends helps the MDPL offer unique programming tailored to Miami’s cultural richness. These efforts underscore the Friends’ role as not only a support group but also a bridge between Miami’s library system and the community it serves.
Adapting to a Digital World
In recent years, the Friends has also embraced Miami-Dade’s growing demand for digital resources, playing an essential role in funding online collections and digital workshops. This includes support for e-books, online classes, and career development programs. These offerings are especially vital in underserved neighborhoods, where library access can be transformative. These initiatives have allowed libraries to reach patrons wherever they are, promoting digital literacy and providing access to important online resources.
Celebrating 50 Years at the Coral Gables Branch Library
To mark its 50th anniversary, the Friends of the MDPL is hosting a special celebration at the Coral Gables Branch Library branch. This milestone event, set for November 16, will honor five decades of service and community engagement. The party will feature guest speakers including Miami’s own legendary humorist and Pulitzer Prize winner Dave Barry. This celebration also offers an opportunity for residents to connect with other supporters of the Miami-Dade library system and to learn about new ways they can get involved.
The Future: Building Community Support and Awareness
As it looks to the future, the Friends organization is eager to build upon its legacy by expanding membership, increasing outreach to younger generations, and partnering with local organizations. It remains committed to strengthening Miami’s library infrastructure and ensuring that library services remain accessible to everyone, regardless of age, income, or background.
With 50 years of steadfast dedication, the Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library continues to create significant value for the community, ensuring that MDPL remains a vibrant and vital resource. The anniversary celebration is more than just a fundraiser. It is an invitation for residents to join the Friends’ mission to support literacy, culture, and lifelong learning in Miami. Tickets are on sale through November 9th. For more information on the event or to learn how you can get involved, visit https://friendsofmdpl.org.
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