A few FYIs before joining:
● No matter which date a member joins or renews, memberships expire on December 31 of the year paid
● Membership dues are not prorated, non-transferable, and are non-refundable
● Pay online with PayPal or your credit card
● Ask for a Friends Membership Form at the library to pay by check or cash.
● Are you already a Friend? Did you sign up earlier this year? Email us to verify: friends4epl@gmail.com
● More questions? Read our full Frequently Asked Questions below.
What are the Friends of the Eastchester Public Library?
The Friends of the Eastchester Public Library is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit that was established to raise money to sponsor Library services and events for the benefit of all patrons, while its members are volunteers for Friends and Library events as needed. The Friends accomplish their fundraising goals through membership dues, donations, fundraising events, weekly Book Sale room and the annual book sale.
What’s “a Friend” or a member of the Friends?
A “Friend” is a member of the Friends. Members pay annual dues to join. Members are allowed to attend the meetings of the Friends and vote in any Friends executive board elections as well as run for an executive board position.
I have a Eastchester Public Library card, am I a member of the Friends?
Since the Friends is a separate nonprofit from the Eastchester Public Library, only those who pay the annual dues to the Friends of the Eastchester Public Library are considered members of the Friends.
Can I join the Friends if I don’t live in Eastchester, of if I don’t have a Eastchester Public library card?
Yes! Anyone can join the Friends of the Eastchester Public Library, and anyone can give a donation to the Friends to help support the Eastchester Public Library.
If I’m a member of the Friends, can I bring a guest to Friends events?
The short answer is: maybe. Some events are advertised as “members-only” which means if you have paid the annual dues and are a current member, you will be invited to those events, but friends of yours who are not members can not attend. If your friend is also a member of the Friends, then yes, of course, bring your friend!
How do I join the Friends?
The easiest way to become a member of the Friends is on our website: https://eastchesterlibrary.org/friends. If you prefer to pay by cash or check, there is a printed membership form available at the circulation desk at the Library.
Do I have to volunteer?
Although we encourage Friends members to volunteer, it is not a requirement. We are equally happy to accept members who only pay the annual dues or donate to our fundraising.
Is the Friends a 501(c)3?
Yes. The Friends of the Eastchester Public Library is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit. Our EIN is 23-7450440
Can I make a matching donation?
Yes, certainly. Many companies have matching donation programs to 501c3 nonprofits, which we are, and some of our members do apply to their companies for matching donations. Please contact us with any questions you have about this: friends4epl@gmail.com
Can I support the Friends in Honor or Memory of Someone?
Yes, visit our website to donate to the Friends in honor of, or in memory of, a loved one! Perhaps that person has asked for donations to the library, or simply loves reading! All donations directly support programs and services at the Eastchester Public Library.
What kinds of services and events have the Friends sponsored?
A great many. Some of the services we’ve sponsored include: Museum Passes, Movie licenses, in-house and Zoom programs. Other events we’ve sponsored include: Summer Reading Programs (adults and children), live musicians and concerts, and our annual book sale.
How long is membership good for?
Our annual membership dues are valid for one calendar year starting each January 1. Memberships expire on December 31 of each year, regardless of when the member signed up. Membership dues are not prorated. For example, if you become a member in January or July, your membership expires on December 31 of that same calendar year and the membership dues are the same price. We keep our membership dues at a low rate to encourage membership, and one can join anytime online: https://eastchesterlibrary.org/friends
Do I have to pay membership dues every year?
If you would like to continue your membership, then at the start of each calendar year you will be able to renew your membership for another year.