Friends of the Yardley-Makefield Library

Fifty years ago, a group of volunteers decided to get together to support their local library.  That was the beginning of the Friends of the Yardley-Makefield Library, a nonprofit  organization that has contributed in numerous ways to our community. 

When the Friends organization was formed, Yardley’s library was housed in a historic building beside Lake Afton. It had served Yardley for a century but had become too small  to meet the needs of the growing population. The Friends were deeply involved in the  establishment of the new library on Edgewood Road, which opened in 1990.  

Over the years, the Friends raised funds to contribute to various library offerings, enabling the library to expand the services it provides. These include the Summer Quest activity programs for children; Bucks for Books, which helps the library add new books to its collection; and Books in a Bag for reading groups. The Friends also provided significant funding for new desks and bookshelves, and outdoor landscaping.  

Other programs that are funded by the Friends, and free to the public, include Chair Yoga, Tai Chi, and the popular Saturday afternoon programs, which cover a variety of subjects, including local interest, culture, and live music. 

The annual Book Sale is our most anticipated and biggest fundraiser. First held in 2008, it has become a major event in the community calendar. Throughout the year, area residents donate good quality books, DVDs, CDs, puzzles, and audiobooks, which we sort and sell at bargain prices. Additional funding comes from member contributions, other donations,  and estate gifts.  

Help us celebrate our 50th anniversary by attending an open house at the library on  Saturday, November 15, from 2 to 4 pm. Better yet, become a Friend and get involved with library activities. Learn more at ymfriends.org or email us at yardleyfriends@yahoo.com.