History of the Friends of the South Park Township Library

  Founded in 1960 in a room at Wilson Hall within Windover Hills United Methodist Church, South Park Township’s first free public library was established through the efforts of the Windover Hills Women’s Club and the Library Women’s Club, later known as the South Park Women’s Club. The group provided staffing, funding, and a growing collection of books and resources. 

After Wilson Hall faced demolition, the library temporarily moved to Broughton (Morgan) School in 1969 while fundraising through the partnership of the Women’s Club and Chamber of Commerce continued for a permanent building next to the Township Building. Ground was broken later that year, and the new library officially opened in December 1970 with volunteer staff and librarians.

October 2, 1974, marked an important occasion for the Library; the members of the Windover Hills Women’s Club and Library Women’s Club came together to become the newly named “Friends of the South Park Township Library”. The Friends was organized as a "group of individuals who are interested in the welfare of their library and willing to devote time and effort to make it a better library."

In December 1974, the Friends launched their first Book Sale with a “Little House on the Prairie” themed booth at South Hills Village Mall. A community membership drive followed in early 1975, growing the organization to 25 members by February. The Friends introduced programs such as a preschool story hour, volunteer training, and fundraisers, while volunteers expanded library hours to include daytime and evening service throughout the week.

By summer 1975, the library hired its first part-time librarian, supported by volunteers organized by the Friends of the Library and local Women’s Club members. That year also launched the Summer Reading Program and the first preschool story hour, attended by 18 children and featuring Barney the Bookworm. The Friends adopted bylaws, raised over $1,000 for library improvements, hosted community events and fundraisers, and even began compiling recipes for a community cookbook.

In spring 1976, plans were announced to expand the township building for a larger library with offices, restrooms, and meeting space. The Friends partnered with the township and community to support the project, setting a $25,000 fundraising goal for furnishings and equipment. Fundraisers such as luminaria sales and Bingo were successful, Story-time attendance grew to 89 children, and adult craft classes were introduced. The Friends also emphasized their mission to promote both fundraising and community use of the library.

In 1977, the library hired a new librarian, temporarily moved to Broughton School while the new building was completed, and added a part-time clerk as the library expanded. The Friends strengthened fundraising efforts through donor drives, community events, and business support, including a $500 donation from Ryan Homes. Community Day featured children’s programs, free library cards, and a wishing well fundraiser supporting the dream of a larger library.

In January 1978, the South Park Township Library moved into the South Park Municipal Complex, where volunteers relocated and re-shelved more than 10,000 books. Staff expanded through a CETA grant, while the Friends raised $6,000 from local families and businesses to furnish the new library. Circulation quickly surpassed 20,000 items, membership grew to 80 by 1979, and plans were made to add 3,000 new books as the library entered its second year as a full-service facility.

In 1980, the Friends grew to more than 100 members, with membership fees set at $5 for families and $2 for individuals, and volunteers contributing library service hours each month. By 1981, however, membership and volunteer recruitment declined as more women returned to work or school. Despite these challenges, the Friends continued community events and focused on sustaining the organization, recruiting members, and supporting the library.

By 1984, the Friends of the library had raised over $20,000 through fundraising, donations, and extensive volunteer work, helping expand library hours from just a few per week to over 50. They also published a second edition of the “Happy Cookers” cookbook and held financial assets including a $2,500 CD at 9.15%.

By 1987–1988, the group introduced a $500 lifetime membership option and continued building funds, with nearly $3,700 in combined savings and over $9,000 in a dedicated building fund.

In 1989, after the loss of a full-time librarian and reduced hours, the now 300+ member organization rallied support during the township budget process.

By 1993, celebrating 23 years of service, the Friends looked ahead as the township planned a major municipal building expansion, doubling its size.

In 1994, the South Park Township Library moved to the lower level of the municipal complex, where it remains. Despite ongoing construction, the Friends helped make the relocation possible, investing about $23,000 in shelving and preparing new children’s area materials, while also organizing their first book sale in over a year.

In 1995, they purchased a commemorative paver in the Walkway of Distinction, supported by the Library Board. By 1998, the Friends received a Certificate of Recognition from VA Citizens for Better Libraries, with membership nearing 300.

Over its 50-year history, the Friends of the South Park Township Library had raised $286,973 to support the library, guided by 13 presidents and dedicated members. They continue to provide programs such as story time, craft classes, fundraising, and volunteer support, staying true to their founding mission of offering educational and engaging experiences for the community.

In 2026, the group relaunched as a 501(c)(3) public charity under a new name, Friends of the South Park Township Library Foundation. This new status strengthens the Foundation’s ability to serve the community by making donations tax deductible, opening access to corporate and foundation grants, and expanding fundraising opportunities. 

As a 501(c)(3), the Foundation can secure greater resources to fund library programs, services, infrastructure, and support enhancements that directly benefit patrons. Although our name and legal status have evolved, we remain the same dedicated organization the community has trusted for decades, but we are now better positioned for the future. Our transition to a Foundation ensures we can continue supporting the Library’s growth and remain a vibrant, welcoming hub of learning, connection, and opportunity for generations to come.