The elected members of the library board are the pater familias of the library. They oversee the running of the library and maintain the upkeep of the library building. A Friends of the Library organization is comparable to indulgent family relatives. They provide the extras, the wished for items that the library budget cannot provide.

And so it was to that end that the Friends of the Mt. Carroll Public Library was initially formed in November, 2005. Four individuals and the library director met to discuss the possibilities and made plans to form such a group. Each monthly meeting saw increasing interest and attendance. In September, 2006, a constitution and bylaws were formally adopted. The election of officers was held. John Gmitro was elected president, Janet Humberg, secretary, and Lou Schau was elected treasurer.

The current focus of the Friends is the preparation for the celebration of the library centennial in August, 2008. Fund raising is an important function of any Friends organization, and this group has been particularly aggressive in that area. They have had two successful book sales: Mayfest Weekend and Brick Street Days. Gift baskets have been provided for a weekly silent auction. The membership drive is on-going and costs $10.00 per year. If you are interested in becoming a member, call us at 244-1751.