Support the Library

It takes the community to support the Library! Many people and organizations are committed to Berkeley Public Library's continued success. 

Gift & Donation Policy

The Berkeley Public Library acknowledges the great importance of private gifts and donations to the library's future development and growth. We welcome gifts of money to enhance library services through the provision of additional materials, equipment and services, as well as other types of gifts such as books.  The Library encourages gifts of cash, not earmarked for specific items (unrestricted) in order to permit the most flexible use of the donation for the enrichment of the library program. Unrestricted funds allow the Library to address its most pressing needs at its discretion. Unrestricted monetary donations may be given by check or money order made out to the Berkeley Public Library. 
 
Donations may be mailed to: Berkeley Public Library, Attn: Administration, 2031 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94704
 

Berkeley Public Library FoundationBerkeley Public Library Foundation

The Berkeley Public Library Foundation amplifies the public investment by raising the additional funds needed to help make a great public library extraordinary. Foundation grants are available to benefit all five locations of the Berkeley Public Library. 

With the help of its community of donors, the Foundation provides resources to advance the Library’s strategic goals in serving the public. Gifts made to the Foundation typically support library innovations, capital improvements, and literacy projects.

The Foundation’s signature fundraising event is the annual Authors Dinner, which began in 2002. At this yearly gala, literary supporters gather to honor Bay Area authors while also raising funds in support of the library.

The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. You can read more about the Berkeley Public Library Foundation and get involved by clicking here! 

Friends of the Library

 

Friends of the Berkeley Public Library

The Friends of the Berkeley Public Library, established in the 1950s, is a 501(c)(3) memberships organization dedicated to enhancing the Berkeley Public Library through fundraising and advocacy efforts.

The Friends operate two affordable used bookstores. Proceeds from the sale of books, plus memberships ($25 annually) and donations support most library programs and events. Read more about the Friends of the Berkeley Public Library.

The Friends' Bookstores

Central Library Bookstore
510-981-6211
Friends Store at Central Library
2090 Kittredge Street
Berkeley, CA 94704

Monday 12Noon-4PM
Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-4PM
Sunday: Closed

Channing Way Bookstore
510-841-5604
Friends Store at Sather Gate
2433 Channing Way
Berkeley, CA 94704

Tuesday-Saturday  10AM-4PM

 

Donations

The Friends' Bookstores depend entirely on donations of books, CDs, and DVDs. Donations can be brought to the bookstores during business hours. If you have a large quantity of books or media to donate, please call 510-841-5604. All items should be in good condition.

The Friends' Bookstores are staffed by over one hundred volunteers. Additional volunteers are always welcome. Find information online or leave your contact information at 510-981-6152 and the Friends will call you.