The Friends of the Princeton Public Library is a volunteer organization of library supporters responsible both for funding many special projects throughout the year as well as supplementing the library’s annual budget with collection, material and infrastructure infusions. The Friends meet several times a year in order to design and implement the multipleannual Book Sales, and guest Speaker Programs. They also provide vital help to the Princeton Public Library staff through a variety of other ways; we continue to be very appreciative of their efforts!
Friends of Princeton Public Library Membership Drive in February
The Friends of Princeton Public Library have started their annual
membership drive via a recent mailing to all current Lifetime
members, individual members, and family members. The membership drive is a way for us to not only increase our membership roster, but also to familiarize the public of just what we do as an organization for our Library on a yearly basis. There are several ways our members can volunteer to assist within the Library and also to assist during the Book Sales. It is because of the continued support of our volunteers that we are able to present the Library with donations to support many additional projects and programs.
Our first book sale of the year is scheduled for March 26-28. A special Preview for Members only will be on Wednesday, March 25, 4 pm–6:30 pm with membership dues being paid by March 18.
All Membership forms can be obtained at the Circulation Desk at the Library If you would like to become a member of the Friends of the Library, please download the letter and membership form below, complete, and return the form to the following address:
Friends of the Library
c/o Princeton Public Library
698 East Peru St.
Princeton IL 61356
The Betty Pretzch Memorial Volunteer Award is given to a 5 year member of the Friends of Princeton Public Library organization who has demonstrated his/her interest in the goals of the Friends group by volunteering at the Library and supporting the work of the Friends. Betty Pretzsch was a past member and served as secretary on the Friends Board. She also volunteered countless hours in support of Friends activities. 2014 was the first year this award was given.

We are pleased to announce the recipient of the award for 2025 is Kathy Ballard. Kathy has been a member of the Friends of Princeton Public Library since 2016. She has been a very reliable volunteer as she assists in the Library every week shelving books, DVD’s, etc. as the patrons return their borrowed items. Kathy has also consistently volunteered at our Book Sales and is always willing to deliver our discarded books to other community organizations. Please join our organization in celebrating Kathy.
The Friends applaud all literacy efforts, such as:
- Each purchase from the Out of Print clothing website helps to fund literacy programs and book donations to communities in need. It also supports the authors, publishers and artists who made these iconic works an integral part of our lives.
- Babies Need Words Every Day is a resource available thanks to the Association for Library Service to Children. The shareable materials on the website are free of charge and are designed to help parents build their children’s literacy skills.
