About the Friends

The Friends of the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped was established as a non-profit (501)(c)(3) charitable organization in 1988.

Its primary function is to supplement funding for the Library by providing resources for materials, equipment, training and volunteer assistance. Such support provides a solid foundation to assist the Library in those programs and services that require resources beyond state and federal funding.

The Friends accomplish this by:

1. Maintaining a volunteer Friends organization to assist the Library in identifying its needs
2. Publicizing the services of the Library
3. Encouraging Marylanders to utilize the Library's services
4. Coordinating individuals, civic associations, businesses, organizations, institutions and educations groups in providing suggestions and a focus for Library services.
5. Providing grant and materials support beyond the state and federal funding for program success.