Friends of Cotuit Library
Our History
The Friends of the Cotuit Library began as a volunteer grass roots group in the early 1980’s and first elected officers in the mid 1980’s. Over time, a formal board was elected to govern the organization. Bylaws were incorporated circa 2007. In 2011, the organization filed for recognition by the state and the federal government as a non-profit group. The organization operates as a fundraising and volunteer arm for the Cotuit Library.
The Friends' mission is to raise funds to supplement the Library’s operating budget, underwrite the cost for selected new programs, advocate and promote Library programs and assist with new Library initiatives. Our volunteer efforts are aimed at preserving the Cotuit Library as a vital resource. In 2024, the Friends adopted a new logo that incorporates the Library's new logo, which was launched in celebration of its 150th Anniversary.
The Friends Board
Board Officers
Joyce Picariello
President
Debra Stephenson
Vice President
Sheila Hastings
Treasurer
Cheree Bellofatto Weeks
Secretary
Board Members
Christine Curtis
Membership Chair
Deb Jarret
Publicity Chair
Lynne Pepall and Jack Gardner
Luncheon Speaker Co-Chairs
Alberta Guerin and Karyl Scrivener
Luncheon Co-Chairs
Board Members
Diane Sullivan Cadigan and Margaret McQuillan
Plant Sale Co-Chairs
Sondra Mercandetti and Susan Maddox
Friendship Soup Co-Chairs
Pam DiTroia and Jane Miceli
Book Nook, Little Library, and Book Sale Co-Chairs
Dana Dunn and Liz Pappas
Volunteer Coordinator
Join the Friends
The Friends of the Cotuit Library is a volunteer organization comprised of individuals, families, and businesses who share an appreciation of the value of the services that the Library provides and a common goal to preserve the Library for future generations. Funding provided by State, Town and the Fire District comprise only half of the Library’s annual budget. To keep the Library operational, funds are raised through grant applications, general and memorial donations, fundraisers, the Annual Appeal, as well as the financial support and gifts-in-kind from the Friends.
Membership fees help the Friends fund the first $10,000 we donate each year to the Cotuit Library to support operations and account for one-third of this commitment. Our goal is to give far more than $10,000 to support the Library.
Our Efforts
The Friends underwrite the cost of select Library programs and assets as well as provide volunteer support for many of the programs and events for the Library. Ongoing, current and past support include:
Children’s summer programs
Wowbrary
Coffee (for the coffee station)
150th Anniversary Banner
Telescopes, select computers, and the circulation desk
The Book Nook (daily sale of used books at the Library)
The Little Free Library (free books to visitors/passers by)
Supplies and any other unanticipated needs not covered by the Library’s budget
Friends Fundraising and Events
Luncheon Speaker Series featuring the talent of artists, gardeners, writers and local personalities (September - May)
Annual Plant and Bake Sale (May)
Annual Book Sale (June)
Become a Friend of the Cotuit Library
Whether you are able to give us your time or talents, please also consider becoming a member of the Friends to help sustain the Library as a vital village and town resource. Tax-deductible membership dues are for the fiscal year July through June. Dues are $30 for an individual and $40 for a family. Members receive $5 off the Luncheon Speakers Series and discounts on merchandise sold at select events.
Click on the link below to join online or pick up a membership brochure at the library and mail to:
Friends of the Cotuit Library
PO Box 648
Cotuit, MA 02635
The Friends membership cycle aligns with the Library’s fiscal year: July - June. We appreciate your membership renewal.
Get Involved… Volunteer!
It takes a village to be successful in keeping with our mission to continually provide funds to supplement the Library’s operating budget or underwrite the cost for selected new Library programs. Consider volunteering today!
How to Volunteer
If you, a family member, friend, or neighbor, might be interested in volunteering with us or serving on the Friends of Cotuit Library Board, please fill out the form below, and we will reach out to you shortly!