The Fairfax County Public Library Board of Trustees approved a revised Memorandum of Understanding between individual library Friends, the Library Board and the Fairfax County Public Library at its January 10, 2018, meeting, concluding more than nine months of work on the document. The library is fortunate to have more than 20 active Friends groups that support the library in numerous ways including donating funds raised through the sale of used books mainly provided by the library, sponsoring events such as the Summer Reading Adventure, and many other worthwhile projects. Miriam Smolen, Chair of the ad hoc MOU Committee of the Library Board shared that “The Friends members are passionate volunteers who provide invaluable services to the Library.”

The new MOU, which replaces a prior 2006 version, provides additional clarity and details regarding the relationship and requirements among the three parties. Components of the document cover communication and coordination, use of the library resources and organization of the Friends groups. The document also details the responsibilities of the Board and the library towards their non-profit partners.

Jessica Hudson, library director, stated that “The MOU offers a chance for the Board, the Friends and staff to recommit to the partnership. The MOU offers clarity in terms of steps to take in order to maintain transparency, public accountability and strong and productive relationships.”

Members of the Library Board of Trustees expressed their appreciation for the Friends groups and the important work they do for the library and the staff during discussions at the January meeting.

Over the next few months, library staff will work with the Friends groups on execution of the document. Once signed, the MOU will remain in effect for five years, with optional five year extensions.