“We read to know we’re not alone.”

William Nicholson

The Friends of the Vinalhaven Public Library supports the library  as a vital educational and cultural asset to the community by promoting public awareness and use of the Library’s resources, and by funding materials, services, and programs to supplement the town budget.

Founded in 1987 at the urging of librarian Lorraine “Lori” Rudolph, the Friends of the Vinalhaven Public Library (FOL) is a non-profit group that promotes public awareness of the library and stimulates use of its resources and services.

Funds raised by the membership dues, donations, and the sale of used books support library programs, activities for children and adults, landscaping at the library, special equipment needs, the entire cost of the Inter-Library Loan program, supplemental books, and magazines and media, as well as special grants to the Vinalhaven School Library.

As volunteers, we also staff Second Hand Prose, a used bookstore on Vinalhaven’s Main Street. All proceeds of new and used book sales directly benefit the Friends.

Meet the friends behind the Friends

Some of Our Accomplishments

  • The "Adopt-a-Book" Program

    Allowing patrons to donate a book to the library’s collection. Click here to learn more.

  • Pumpkin Painting Party

    A free event celebrating Halloween with children and their parents!

  • Passes and memberships

    Library patrons can check out free passes to Maine museums, galleries, gardens, and more.

  • A new rug for the Children's Room

    Bringing some color and comfort to the Children’s Room at the Vinalhaven Public Library.

  • Early Childhood backpacks

    A curated selection of books, games, and activities for children to check out from the library.

  • Outdoor furniture

    Allowing library patrons to enjoy books and free Wi-Fi from the comfort of the back patio.

  • Seed packet program

    Supplying library patrons with beautiful seeds for their gardens.

  • Supporting library clubs and groups

    Providing space and resources for like-minded people to gather and learn.

  • Landscaping at the library

    Keeping the VPL grounds looking beautiful throughout the seasons.

  • Magazine subscriptions

    Bringing the latest magazines and periodicals to the reading room at VPL.