memphis
Friendsof the library
Friends
Friends of the library
About US
Friends of the Library are a diverse group of citizens who are changing Memphis – one book at a time! As a nonprofit, charitable organization supporting Memphis Public Libraries, we believe that knowledge is power. Since 1962, we have worked to uplift the Library System through giving, volunteerism, financial support, and helping to increase literacy citywide. This same mission lives on today!
What We Do
Memphis Library Friends help to raise money for all 18 Memphis Public Library locations and their programs and services by sorting and selling thousands of donated items, such as gently-used books, CDs, DVDs, magazines, vinyl records and more. A diverse group of citizens, Friends are library advocates and are committed to serving the approximately two million customers who enter Memphis Public Libraries annually.
We’re Missing You!
Bring your talents and expertise to the table by joining Friends or starting a Friends branch at another Memphis Public Library location!
Friends of the library
Board Members
President Ann Bailey-Mitchell
Treasurer Dominique Taylor
Finance Chair Dr Francis Offiong
Secretary Alice Burns
At-Large Jairo Arguijo
At-Large Sylvia King Dye
At-Large Carolyn Head
BRANCH REPRESENTATIVES
Chandra Bailey Cherokee
Linda Busby Cordova
Rebecca Murray Frayser
Dora Bell Levi
Eunice Forde Parkway Village
Yvette Washington North
Wuday Thomas Hollywood
Shelly Lewis Raleigh
Jessica Chaney Randolph
Mcquita Jones South
Sharon Trower Officer Geoffrey Redd
Wuday Thomas Crenshaw/Gaston Park
Vince Demps Cossitt
Vacant East Shelby
Jackie Holland Orange Mound/Melrose
Vacant Whitehaven
Friends of the library
Our President
Angela (Ann) Bailey-Mitchell is a proud native Memphian, passionate community advocate, and dynamic leader serving as President of the Friends of the Library. A lifelong champion of literacy and opportunity, Ann brings both heart and strategy to everything she touches.
She is a huge fan of the Bluff City and believes deeply in investing time, talent, and treasure right here at home. Volunteering and giving back aren’t hobbies for Ann, they’re a calling. Inspired by her mother, a librarian who nurtured her love of books, Ann’s journey with the library began years ago at the Cordova Friends of the Library. She has served faithfully as substitute liaison, secretary, and now president of the citywide Friends organization.
She is a wife, mom, and grandmother, always learning, always growing, and still “practicing” daily.Her faith in Christ anchors her service and fuels her belief that strong communities are built through connection, education, and opportunity.
Under Ann’s leadership, the Friends of the Library continue to support all 18 branches, champion several signature events, and expand programs that keep Memphis reading, learning, and thriving.
Ann’s invitation is simple: Join us. Volunteer. Become a member. Show up for your library and your community.
Because when Memphis reads, Memphis rises.
All My Best,
Ann Bailey-Mitchell
901-581-8370
[email protected]