Read the Bookworm Bulletin, our
newsletter.
Photo Galleries
Grand opening video by Mark Matheis, WCU.
Grand opening celebration by Elizabeth & David Luttrell of Luttrell Photography, Apex, NC.
Two-year construction process photos by Nick Breedlove, The Sylva Herald.
About Us
History of the Friends
The Friends of the Jackson County Public Library was incorporated in 1997; however it had been operating on an informal basis for more than three decades.
A small group of Jackson County citizens saw the need to help the new library, built in 1970, and began their work by volunteering at the library and by selling the library's discarded books at occasionally held book sales. By 1980 the Friends organization was providing funds to purchase much needed items for the library.
Since then, the Friends has become a strong group of dedicated volunteers, and a generous champion for the library that supports the library with advocacy, ongoing financial contributions, and volunteers.
Annual Reports & Strategic Plan
(printable pdfs)
2010-2011
2009-2010
The Friends are active supporters of the community hosting special events at the library and the bookstore. Seen here Pic and Play Dulcimer group at Friday Night Live in Downtown Sylva.
'Contributing, encouraging, enriching'
In 2007 the Jackson County Commissioners made the decision to renovate the historic courthouse and add a 20,000 square foot addition to form the new library complex. Following that decision, the Friends agreed to spearhead a community Capital Campaign to raise funds to furnish and equip the library complex. Through the generosity of donors and grantors, the group raised in excess of $1.8 million.
The Friends main source of revenue is generated by sales from the Friends Used Book Store in downtown Sylva and membership fees.
In fiscal year 2011-2012, the Friends have committed to contribute a minimum of $20,000 to the library and just recently made a $10,000 contribution to the Endowment Fund