About

Friends of the Library

The Friends of the Springfield Library is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the work of the Springfield Library. The Friends work to promote awareness of library resources, raise funds for special programming, and advocate on behalf of library interests.

History of the Library

Springfield Library Company was begun prior to 1796. Yet this and other libraries like it were not public libraries, but were limited to specific groups of people. In 1857 the City Library Association was formed, and although still privately funded, a room in City Hall was provided for use as a library.

Library Commission

Members of the Springfield Library Commission are appointed by the Mayor of the City of Springfield. All meetings unless otherwise noted will be held on the first Wednesday of the month in the Community Room of the Central Library, 220 State Street, and begin at 5:30 PM.

Library Policies

All Springfield City Library facilities are available to persons of all ages. While everyone has an equal right to access library services and facilities, no person has the right to interfere with the ability of others to use and enjoy library resources, services, and facilities.

Mission & Plans

The Springfield City Library actively connects with its diverse community and provides effective resources and a safe space for all. Our Library is a hub for free access to information and technology, social and civic engagement, and support of personal enrichment, well-being, and lifelong learning.

Promise Realized

The East Forest Park Branch Library is one of the busiest locations in the Springfield City Library System, but the current strip mall location makes it hard to provide much-needed services to the public. The new building will include a number of great features: increased space, meeting rooms and study rooms, a teen media lab, dedicated parking, and more.

The Springfield Library Foundation

The Springfield Library Foundation was formed in 2005 and is incorporated as a 501(c)3 tax exempt, not-for-profit corporation organized and operated exclusively for the benefit of the Springfield City Library.

Volunteer

The Springfield City Library values the time and the interest of citizens who would like to volunteer. All those interested should speak with the manager or supervisor of the branch library where they would like to help.