The Friends of the Troy Public Library is a member supported, non-profit organization. It was founded in 1972 with the purpose of stimulating interest in and support for the Troy Public Library by encouraging the community to become a member, contribute funds and donate time through volunteering.

The Friends support programs, services, and special projects for the Library. We underwrite:

  • The Children’s Summer Reading program
  • The Adult Summer Reading program
  • The Museum Pass Program
  • Shorts Out Loud
  • Books, e-books, streaming services, and hotspots for the library
  • Staff appreciation events
  • Infrastructure upgrades and enhancements

In 2020-23 these purchases included:

  • New carpeting for the Young People’s areas at both Lansingburgh and Main
  • A shiny new Book Drop at the Lansingburgh branch
  • New Desk for the Young Peoples Area at Main
  • New Lighting for the Stacks at Main
  • Painting the Young People’s area at Main
  • A match for the cost of the LED lighting for the Lansingburgh Branch

The Friends raise awareness of the Library in the community and rally support. We promote programs and services through activities such as:

  • Sharing Library events on Facebook and to our members
  • Co-sponsoring the I Love the Library event with Market Block Books
  • Promoting the Annual Library Budget Vote and election of new Library Board Members
  • Distributing unsold books to Little Free Libraries throughout the community

The Friends bring support to the Library by coordinating members and volunteers to:

  • Operate the Book Seller, the used bookstore at the Lansingburgh Branch
  • Organize Pop-Up Book events at The Troy Farmers’ Market and Seasons Cafe
  • Conduct additional fundraising and administrative activities

Previous collaborations have included:

  • Pop-Up book events at the Music Hall free noon concerts, Hidden Garden Tour, and Alley Rally
  • Holiday gift wrapping at Market Block Books

Board of Directors

The Friends of the Troy Public Library Board of Directors is a hands-on group of volunteers. The Board meets 4 times a year to develop policies for the Friends, make decisions on the allocation of its resources in conjunction with the Director of the Library and to identify new outreach opportunities. Its ongoing activities include managing administrative tasks, coordinating volunteers, and providing staffing for activities.

Fredda Merzon – President

Phyl Brazee- Vice President

Barry Leibson – Treasurer

Chris Lasky – Book Seller Manager and Secretary

Loreen Kaiser – Book Wrangler

Judy Meyer

Elizabeth Harwood – Social Media Creator

Ruth Sweet

Casey Macksey