By: Advika Anand and Lila Zamansky

Graphics Editor and Media Production Manager 

For over four decades, the Los Gatos Library has been more than a place to borrow books; it has been a center of learning, creativity, and connection within the community. At the heart of this success is the Friends of Los Gatos Library, a volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to funding library enhancements and recreational programs. Their mission is to bring people together through literature and books, beginning with pop-ups whose funds directly support the library’s programs, events, and activities.

Their latest pop-up, the second annual Patio Book Sale on Sept. 13, offered customers the opportunity to socialize while getting a great deal by purchasing two books for one dollar. All of the books sold by the bookstore have been donated by residents or cycled through the public library, creating a more sustainable process. Books not sold at the pop-ups are then donated to different organizations or other smaller libraries in the town to ensure that every book finds a purpose. As store manager Lisa Schirmer pointed out, “These pop-ups are the book’s last hurrahs.” Events like these have become a signature part of how Friends of Los Gatos Library engages with the community through affordable books that are available to all.

Beyond pop-ups, the Friends of the Los Gatos Library ties much of their work to other Los Gatos businesses. As a downtown institution, the bookstore can more easily connect with and promote local shops and restaurants, allowing for joint events and growth opportunities. For example, they have partnered with Willow Street and Zona Rosa for various events, with 20% of the restaurants’ proceeds going to the store. Additionally, in the spring, Friends of the Library and clothing business, J. McLaughlin, hosted Sip & Shop, an event which featured a combination of wine and stylish clothes. This partnership not only provides important funding for the library but also gives a business visibility within the community.

Aside from local businesses, Friends of the Los Gatos Library also connects with the community through their volunteer program. High school students and other residents help out by running the bookstore or lending a hand during special events. Audrey Baenziger, an online student at Arizona State University, decided to volunteer with The Friends of the Los Gatos Library for her internship class. She shared that the experience has given her a chance to connect with people in town and learn how the bookstore runs. Schirmer added, “The process is very easy, and it is not stressful to volunteer here. You get to basically talk to people all day, help them find books, and organize the books.”

Overall, the Friends of Los Gatos Library is a great nonprofit establishment that supplies the public library with an additional source of funds that ultimately allows for the community’s pursuit of knowledge, alongside maintaining the library’s resources.  If any readers are interested in signing up to volunteer, there are applications on the front desk of the store, and the store is always open for eager readers and volunteers alike.