Join the Friends of the Library

Who are the Friends of the Library?

The Friends of Cook Memorial Public Library District is an independent, volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization of enthusiastic Library supporters. They work together to help the Library District go the extra mile for patrons of all ages by promoting reading in general and the Cook Memorial Library in particular.

What do the Friends do?

They provide financial support for new or innovative programs and resources. They volunteer their time and talents and are library ambassadors within the community. They also take on leadership roles within the organization. After expenses, 100 percent of the money raised (either through fundraisers and programs or donations from the public) goes back into the Library. The Friends of the Library underwrite the costs of the Library’s reading programs (the costs of supplies and prizes) and finance equipment and supplies not covered in the library budget.

• Seasonal reading program supplies and prizes
• Equipment and supplies not covered in the Library’s budget
• Weekly Movie Matinees
• Children’s Department aquariums
• Handicapped-accessible door systems
• Water dispensers for water bottles
• Books for One Book, One Community
• Library merchandise

Membership

Support the Friends of the Library by becoming a member. Membership also grants first entry to annual book sales during the Member’s First Choice hours. If you’re interested in joining, please email the Friends at friendsofcooklibrary@gmail.com, check their Facebook page; or call 847-362-2330.

• Yearly Membership: $10
• Lifetime Membership: $50

2023 One-Day Fall Book Sale

Saturday, October 21, 9 am–5 pm • Aspen Drive Library

We’re trying something a little different this season: a one-day sale. But don’t worry, the bag sale is still happening!

• 9–11 am: Members Only
  Not a member? Join at the sale entrance: $10 for the year; $50 for a lifetime membership.
• 11 am–3 pm: Open to the Public
• 3–5 pm: $5 Bag Sale
  We supply the bag, and you fill it with all the books, movies, etc. that fit for $5. Multiple bags are permitted. Educators who teach at schools in the Library District may select books free of charge with a valid school ID.

All book sale proceeds support the Cook Memorial Public Library District. Cash, checks, and credit/debit cards accepted. Jobbers and scanners are permitted. No overnight holds.

Donations

Due to the overwhelming initial response, donations will no longer be accepted after Friday, September 22.

Year-Round Sale Shelves

Purchase used books and other items year-round from the book sale shelves at Aspen Drive Library and Cook Park Library. 

• Aspen Drive Library Book Nook is located in the front lobby in the Café area.
• Cook Park Library Sale Shelves are next to the Holds Pick-Up area behind the Welcome Desk.

Make a Donation

Make a monetary donation in support of the Library and its services to the community. You can make a donation online by signing in to our online payment system with your Library card or by completing the Donation Request Form (submit completed form to Gabriella Pantle at Cook Park Library).

Purchase a Book for the Library’s Collection

Commemorate a special occasion or honor a loved one with a purchased donation for the Library district’s collection. Each book purchased with a donation bears a distinctive bookplate noting the donor’s name and the name of the person or the occasion being remembered or celebrated.

Donation Request Form
Submit completed form to Gabriella Pantle at Cook Park Library.

Donate a Tree

Honor a family member, commemorate the birth of a future reader, or remember a special occasion by donating a tree to Aspen Drive Library. A bronze dedication plaque will be installed by each donated tree.

For additional information or to reserve a tree, please call Gabriella Pantle at 847-362-2330 x1101.