Summary: Support the library’s mission and initiatives with supplemental fundraising efforts and provide strategic guidance and oversight to advance the mission of the Friends organization.

• Attend monthly Friends of the Library board meetings, not missing more than three meetings each year. Participate actively in board meetings, contributing insights and expertise to decision-making processes
• Maintain an active membership with the Friends of the Library through the duration of board service
• Support the development and implementation of the board’s annual goals
• Exercise fiduciary responsibility by overseeing fiscal management and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards
• Advocate for the organization within the community and engage in networking to expand its reach and impact, and serve as ambassadors for the organization, promoting its mission and values to stakeholders and the public.
• Assist in fundraising efforts, including donor cultivation and the annual appeal

What We Do:

The Friends work to support the library in a variety of ways every year.

• Raise funds by operating two retail locations in the Orlando Public Library
• Support library staff through the Friends of the Library Scholarship Fund
• Sponsor library programs like Prime Time Family Reading
• Provide free children’s books to Head Start locations and during library summer programs
• Provide new computer learning stations at library locations

Mission Statement:

The Friends of the Orange County Library System support and cooperate with the library in enhancing resources, innovations, and services for the public. The Friends work to increase public awareness and use of the library. The Friends sponsor library programs, and work to encourage gifts, endowments, and bequests for the benefit of the library.

Skills and talents of ideal candidate:

Interested business professionals with backgrounds in finance, accounting, development, education and literacy, philanthropy, law, governance policies, and business management are encouraged to apply. Experience with strategic planning, corporate affairs, and political advocacy would also be useful. 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We are seeking to create a diverse board that represents the vibrant and varied communities within Orange County.

Meeting Location

Orange County Library System locations and some virtual options

Time Commitment

One meeting a month, lasting approximately 60-90 minutes, subcommittee meetings vary

What can this board position do for the applicant:

Provide networking opportunities with fellow Board members and community members, gain insights into the workings of a nonprofit organization while offering fiduciary oversight, enhance expertise in providing continual strategic counsel, add service experience to your resume

How to Apply:

Please contact Development Manager Jenn Schock for more information about the Friends of the Orange County Library System and our recruitment process.

jschock@ocls.org