National Friends of the Library Week (October 18-24, 2026) is an opportunity for Fairfax County Public Library to thank our many Friends groups for their contributions throughout the year. These individual groups support, assist and promote library activities for the local community. Every Friends group makes valuable contributions to the entire library, as well as their own branch.
The Friends are more than supporters—they are advocates, champions and partners in ensuring that libraries remain vibrant, welcoming spaces for everyone. Our Friends groups work tirelessly behind the scenes to make so much possible. They organize book sales, fund special programs, support early literacy initiatives, sponsor author talks and help bring innovative resources into our branches. Their efforts amplify what libraries can offer, making every visit more meaningful for patrons of all ages.
But their impact goes beyond events and funding. The Friends embody the spirit of community engagement. They remind us that libraries thrive when people come together to share their love of learning, reading and connection. Their support helps keep our libraries resilient, adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of the neighborhoods they serve.
During Friends of the Library Week, we encourage everyone to take a moment to celebrate these incredible volunteers - whether it’s attending a Friends-sponsored program, becoming a member, donating books you no longer want or simply purchasing a book at one of their many sales.
To all of our Friends: thank you for everything you do to keep our libraries strong, welcoming and filled with possibility. Happy Friends of the Library Week!
Friends of the Library
Over the course of FY2026, our Friends have donated more than $541,610 and provided 47,056 hours of support to FCPL.
Our Friends Groups Include:
• Access Services Advisory Group
• Friends of Burke Centre Library
• Friends of Centreville Regional Library
• Friends of Chantilly Regional Library
• Friends of City of Fairfax Regional Library
• Friends of Culmore Library
• Friends of Dolley Madison Library
• George Mason Friends
• Friends of Great Falls Library
• Friends of Herndon Fortnightly Library
• Friends of Kings Park Library
• Friends of Kingstowne Library
• Friends of Lorton Library
• Friends of Martha Washington Library
• Friends of Oakton Library
• Friends of Patrick Henry Library
• Friends of Pohick Regional Library
• Friends of Reston Regional Library
• Friends of Richard Byrd Library
• Friends of Sherwood Regional Library
• Friends of Thomas Jefferson Library
• Friends of Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library
• Friends of the Virginia Room
2026 Friends' Choice Awards
The Fairfax County Public Library Board of Trustees and community members will gather on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Chantilly Regional Library to celebrate the library’s Friends groups and recognize members nominated by their peers for their outstanding service.
Join Your Library's Friends Group Today!
Community members wishing to become part of a Friends group can find out more information on the library’s Friends website. This page includes a list of the different Friends groups throughout Fairfax County as well as details on membership and how to join. You can become actively involved or simply have the satisfaction of supporting a worthwhile cause. Consider donating your used books to the library for sale during Friends' book sales!