Construction of the new Foley Public Library is getting a generous boost thanks to the continued support of local book lovers.

The Friends of the Foley Library recently donated $40,000 to help purchase equipment for the new library and community center, which is scheduled to open in May.

The contribution follows the friends’ annual book sale, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. The 2026 sale proved to be the most successful in the group’s history.

“This year’s book sale has been our most successful sale ever,” said Friends President Taylor Johns. “We had more books, a larger crowd and raised more money than ever before!”

Library Director Kate Norris said the organization’s support plays a major role in enhancing services and amenities at the new facility.

“Our friends are an amazing organization, and we can’t thank them enough for all they do for us,” Norris said. “Over the years they have purchased shelving, new technology, helped fund staffing and so much more. We plan to use this money to purchase digital signage in the new library and invest in new technology for our dedicated STEAM/Learning Lab.”

A New Chapter for Foley

The new library is under construction at the intersection of East Orange Avenue and South Chicago Street. The two-story facility will feature approximately 40,000 square feet of space — about twice the size of the current library, which opened in 1984 and was later expanded.

The new center will include:

  • A sensory room

  • Separate activity areas for children and teens

  • A large multi-purpose room with seating for 277

  • Dedicated spaces for special-needs programming

  • A STEAM/Learning Lab

In addition to hosting the annual book sale, the Friends operate a bookstore inside the library that is open daily to the public. Proceeds from bookstore sales directly support library programs, materials and enhancements.

Johns said the organization welcomes new members who want to support the library and its mission.

“We would love for anyone who is not currently a member to join us,” she said. “The friends is a very active organization that has many ways for you to plug in, be active, and support a great cause.”

The Friends of the Foley Library is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening and enhancing library services and materials. Through fundraising efforts and volunteer support, the group helps supplement public funding and ensures the library continues to grow to meet the needs of the community.

For more information about the Friends of the Foley Library or how to become a member, visit the Foley Public Library or go to foleylibrary.org.