Established in 1938, the Friends of the Dartmouth Library is an informal association of those who appreciate the importance of maintaining the strength of the Library. Over the years, members of the Friends have generously contributed to the building of Dartmouth's outstanding academic library collections. Through gifts, both large and small, the Library has been able to make many purchases and provide services that otherwise would not have been possible. In this way, the Friends organization has ensured the continuation of a tradition of excellence long associated with the Dartmouth College Library.

The challenge to the Library of meeting the information needs of the College has never been greater. In order to sustain and expand its position as an outstanding academic library, the Library must continue to build its book collections while at the same time taking advantage of the benefits modern technology affords. As for more than two and a quarter centuries, the Library will depend on the generosity of its benefactors to flourish in these new frontiers.

The Friends contribute to the Library in almost as many ways as there are Friends. Many donate items of special value such as a rare first edition or a set of valuable manuscripts. Many others help by way of an annual monetary contribution. These are pooled, creating a significant resource from which the Library can purchase needed books and manuscripts or expand services offered to the Dartmouth community.

Dartmouth's library collections reflect the contributions of many generations. This is your opportunity to continue that tradition. Help us to ensure that future generations of the Dartmouth family enjoy a library as strong as the one we have today.

http://www.dartmouth.edu/~library/friends/page2.html
May 25, 2000