Friends Of The Library, Montgomery County Maryland Inc

As a Board of Trustees member with FOLMC, I am so pleased to work with dedicated professionals and volunteers to improve the lives of our citizenry through libraries. The work FOLMC accomplishes enables our library system to thrive and best serve Montgomery County. Proud to be a part of it!

The FOL bookstore at the Wheaton Library is a great little bookshop. Good variety of titles and media, well organized and well-priced. The staff are very helpful and friendly, and I always find new books here as well as classics and out or print rarities.

FOLMC is an incredible nonprofit. I've worked with them to lead writing workshops and bring language to others. There is so much energy in FOLMC around helping young people find a voice. I feel energized working with them and engaging with Executive Director Ari Brooks, who is so committed to the power of writing and literature. She (and FOLMC more broadly) bring grace and patience and experience to the people and organizations they're working with. I'm grateful I've gotten to work with them the last couple years and be a part of their community and mission.

FOLMC bookstores are magic!!!

My husband and I donate books to the store. We have to PROMISE each other we won’t buy more books than we donated.

Staff are

My 10 yr. Old grandson was gifted a coupon for your bookstore. Boy did we hit the jackpot!! Pleasant staff to help us. We ended up with 13 books and a science kit. Kept him occupied this summer! We have been back twice and will continue to go to our new favorite book store!!!

I have had extremely positive experiences with FOLMC as a donor and later as a board member. This superb mission-driven organization supports the public library system in many creative ways, and provides opportunities for community engagement across the county. Its bookstores directly support local libraries and are also wonderful resources in their own right, as a place to rehome books and media and as a place to discover treasures - I have been especially lucky in finding gems in the children's section. Executive Director Ari Brooks is an organized, engaged, attentive, and kind leader who cares enormously about the library system and about FOLMC's staff and volunteers. I have also been impressed by FOLMC's care and commitment to meet and exceed best practices related to charities and the use of charitable contributions. FOLMC is a superb community resource and a wonderful place to contribute to as a volunteer, a donor, or a board member.

I love World War II history, and read so much from that period. I had to have knee surgery, and had a gift of....the entire World War II section of books available on the shelf that day at the FOLMC bookstore!
The collection was full of great books....the histories and biographies I would have expected and so much more. My collection included Armed Services Editions paperbacks given to soldiers, a book capturing the impact of Kilroy, a couple of books of maps, and so much more.
The random collection of books was so much fun, and could be used for others....for your favorite gardener, pick up all the gardening books. For your favorite chef, a group of cookbooks. Theatre lovers, a collection of plays.
At the bookstore, coming up with a gift with so much impact doesn't cost much money

My mother loves mysteries and when she learned about the Louise Penny series, she sent me out to find as many of those books as possible. I'm a big fan of the Friends of the Library, so, I knew the best place to go was the FOLMC bookstore in Rockville. They did not disappoint! There was a great selection available, and I was able to load my mother up with enough books to keep her occupied for a while. The books, as always, were in great condition and at a fair price, too. While I was there, I picked up a few new favorites for myself. The bookstore staff was helpful and pleasant. That store has always been my go-to place for books, and I recommended it highly to others.

A friend recommended Friends of the Library when I was as looking for a place to donate school textbooks. I took the opportunity to drop in to look for myself and an hour and a half later I walked out with so many great books - for myself, my 1st grade classroom and my grandchild!! I continue to go back looking for more great books. I needed picture books about Martin Luther King, Jr and they were already pulled and displayed for sale. Not only are there very current and new books, but they have classics, unique titles and a huge variety. The prices cannot be beat and the books are in great condition. I will be making the Friends of the Library a regular stop in my plan to build a diverse and interesting classroom library as well as choose great books for my grandchild. 10 out of 10 recommend!!

Imagine my delight when an unexpected birthday gift arrived at my door and it was a box full of books!!!! And all of them hand picked by the staff of FOLMC, chosen with care from the genres that they were told I enjoyed. Their choices hit the nail on the head! What fun and what a wonderful service.
Next time you’re struggling for a gift idea, consider one of their book bundles….both you and your recipient will be glad you did!

Have you ever heard that special crackle when you open a new book? You will be surprised at how often you will hear that same sound at the Friends of the Library bookstore! New books, gently used books, even worn classics are available in a multitude of sections and all curated beautifully by the FOLMC volunteers. A special shout out to the children’s librarian: your choices are excellent and well organized! Occasionally, I will wander away from the children’s section to check out mysteries and other sections. They are also curated beautifully. Thank you FOLMC for the selection and all the activities you offer to encourage reading literacy in Montgomery County.

Books have always been a source of joy and food for my endless curiosity about life and our world. The FOLMC bookstore has for the past several years been my go to place to find the books I want to read. The staff are always helpful. The store is well organized and has the character of the independent bookstores I came to love in different parts of the country I have lived in. Lance and his team do a great job in providing a great customer experience to all patrons. I’ve also had the privilege of getting to know Lance, FOLMC’s executive director Ari Brooks and the rest of the FOLMC team as a board member. I’ve always felt that FOLMC was in good hands and that the money I donated to FOLMC would be used wisely and effectively.

I am a former board member and active library user. FOLMC is a very well run organization and that is kudos to the long time ED and her staff. They are constantly providing new ways to enhance ways to provide funding to our county libraries. Additionally, the strong working relationship the library has with the community and FOLMC ensures that additional programming that is supported and provided by FOLMC meets community needs. Even though my tenure on the board has come to a close, I still financially support the organization and use the wonderful library system!

I've been a big fan of Friends Of The Library, Montgomery County for many years. I often go to the Rockville store, which has an amazing and ever-changing inventory. They have books, of course (including current best sellers, rare books, old books as far back as the 1600s (maybe older), 1st editions, and signed books) music in several formats, games, magazines, and other interesting things - one day they had a shelf of new tarot card decks! You never know what treasures you'll find for yourself or for gifts. If you haven't been to the store, give yourself a treat and stop by.
I also enjoy the auctions, which often have eclectic items, for example large tile mosaics featuring famous authors. I've also donated items to FOLMC auctions. (The auctions are listed on the FOLMC website under the Events & Programs tab.)
I've donated $ through the website to support the wonderful FOLMC programs. They have something going on almost every day. https://www.folmc.org/events-calendar/
FOLMC is an all-around wonderful non-profit that serves many facets of the community through the stores and a variety of fun and interesting programs and events.

I'm a high school student and I love this store. This is a really fun place to do SSL hours as a volunteer. You can help the store and after volunteering, it's fun to look for books to read because the selection is really good, they get different books in often, and the prices are GREAT!

Really nice, eclectic store with a wide variety of media. The prices are very reasonable and the selection is sizable. The staff is knowledgeable in assisting customers.

FOLMC bookstores are the best bookstores in the region! They have a great variety, unbelievable prices and constant turnover, whether you are looking for books, records, or CDs/DVDs. More importantly is the fact that all proceeds support our fantastic county libraries. But FOLMC bookstores are more than retail outlets, they are community institutions. The staff are incredibly friendly and engaging, not to mention well versed in all genres of fiction and nonfiction. I have been shopping and donating books to FOLMC for years and I can think of no better place to spend my free time immersed in the exciting world of books. Thank you, Lance, Candice, Susan, Tom, Suzanna and all the volunteers! You helped me and many others get through the pandemic and continue to provide a most value service!

One of my favorite things about moving to a new place is getting a library card! I did not realize that when I became a card holder for Montgomery County Public Libraries that I would also have access to amazing programs and incentives because of the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County (FOLMC)!!!

I love books, when I say I love books - I love books, my name came from a book - that is how much I love books and when I found out about the Bookstores, I almost lost my mind! There are two retail bookstores, one in Rockville and one in Wheaton but not only that, there are book sales at a bunch of different branches of the libraries - we're talking $1 - $5 for amazing books - who could beat that?? And they also have online opportunities to buy books too and that is awesome - you get to support local by using their links and getting your books sent right to your door!

And, don't get me started on the programs! From Contemporary Conversations to special events - they have it covered. I have been able to do virtual food tastings with Chef Bryant Terry, I have met authors IN PERSON, and I have been exposed to books and topics that I would never have experienced if it weren't for FOLMC. This year alone, they hosted a "scratch battle" in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop - how many organizations host events like that?

FOLMC is always thinking out of the box - or better yet - out of the book to come up with ways to help libraries expand their programming and help residents learn more about fun topics. They also create programming to encourage younger generations to embrace writing and reading through programs like Mosaic Creative Writing for Middle School students.

I could go on and on about how amazing FOLMC is but I would rather encourage you to take a look for yourself: https://www.folmc.org/ - they are pretty fabulous!

I am delighted to write a review for the Friends of the Library Montgomery County, MD! This organization has made a profound impact on our community and Montgomery County Public Libraries, and I am truly grateful for all they do.
First and foremost, the Friends of the Library play an integral role in supporting our local libraries. Through their bookstores and honor booksales, they provide vital financial assistance that allows our libraries to offer a wide range of programs and services that benefit people of all ages. From children's storytimes to adult literacy programs, the Friends of the Library ensure that our libraries remain vibrant hubs of education, entertainment, and community engagement.
One of the aspects I admire most about this organization is their commitment to promoting literacy and a love for reading. Through their book sales and fundraising efforts, they have made it possible for countless individuals, including those with limited resources, to access an extensive selection of books at affordable prices. This not only encourages reading but also fosters a sense of community by bringing book lovers together.
The Friends of the Library also organize events and activities that enrich our community. Their author talks, book signings, and lecture series expose residents to a diverse range of perspectives and ideas, sparking stimulating conversations and broadening horizons. These events are free, making them accessible to a wide audience.
Their dedicated volunteers deserve special recognition. These individuals generously donate their time and energy to help sort and organize books, staff events, and provide support to library staff. Their passion and dedication are truly admirable.
In addition to their contributions to the libraries, the Friends of the Library Montgomery County, MD, actively engage with the community. They collaborate with local schools and organizations, furthering their mission to make literacy and education accessible to all. Their outreach efforts, such as their sponsorship of the MOSAIC writing contest for middle school students, demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
In conclusion, the Friends of the Library Montgomery County, MD, are a true asset to our community. Their efforts have enriched the lives of our residents in countless ways, from promoting literacy and education to fostering a sense of togetherness. I wholeheartedly support and applaud their work, and I encourage everyone to get involved or support this outstanding organization in any way they can. They truly make Montgomery County a better place to live. Thank you, Friends of the Library, for all that you do!

I've served on the FOLMC board since 2017, as Trustee, board secretary, and board president, as well as chair of the board development and governance committee. Personally I've donated probably hundreds of books over the years to FOLMC's used-book retail stores, knowing that the proceeds from selling those books will go to our public library system. The book stores are expertly managed by FOLMC's Lance Salins, who has a national profile as an award-winning bookseller. As a board member and officer, I've worked closely with Ari Brooks, FOLMC's executive director. No one is as devoted to libraries and being a true Friend of the Library than Ari. Her professionalism shows in how she manages the staff, bookstores, and her relationship with the Board, and of course in her relationships with MCPL administration and the Library Board to support a cohesive community of library devotees. FOLMC offers comprehensive training for volunteer opportunities not just for board members but also to folks who wish to run book sales at their local libraries. As board president, I can attest to FOLMC's strict attention to best practices and compliance with federal and state regulations regarding charities and stewardship of charitable contributions. I highly recommend FOLMC as a place to donate your beloved books when you're done with them, your financial support when you are able, and your time as a volunteer when you're ready to be part of a terrific community based nonprofit supporting Montgomery County's treasured public libraries.

The book bundles from the FOLMC bookstores are such a treasure, and have become a go-to gift for me to send. Who wouldn't treasure a curated box of six to eight gently used books as a gift? And the price, INCLUDING postage? $30.00!! Such a deal.
I've sent a current events bundle that the recipient thought I hand selected for him, a literary fiction bundle, a true crime bundle, and so many more. The staff at the store are so knowledgable and so careful in their selections. (If you order for a child, they inquire about name and interests. A friend was delighted that the bundle she ordered for her son included a book whose main character's name was the same as her son's.)
It is a great birthday, holiday, feel better, or "just" no occasion gift!