Friends of the Olive Free Library

All year long, the Friends group holds engaging programs to bring friends and neighbors together while raising money to support the Olive Free Library. Join us in May and June to support our mission:


Support The Friends of the Olive Free Library

The Impact of Your Support

Last year your generous contributions enabled the library to make much-needed capital improvements and create several community events:

  • New sofas and chairs
  • New book-drop box at the library entrance
  • New bookcases for The Peck Collection
  • Community events including The Murder Mystery Supper Club Spring Fundraiser, Community Yard Sale, Library Fair, Garden Tour, Olive Day booth, and volunteer support for the Library Holiday Fair
  • A book release celebration for two books by local authors: Melissa McHugh's "Town of Olive", and Kate McGloughlin's "Do Good"

Our Library's Needs

We want to expand our fundraising goals and increase the capital improvements for the Olive Free Library. This year, in response to the Library's "Wish List" we are focusing on:

  1. Expanding Library Services in Shokan
  2. Furthering Community Engagement
  3. Book Donations & Fair Volunteers

Exciting News! A generous community member is matching all donations made in May and June, up to $10,000-doubling the impact of your gift!

What We're Doing

We feel the love from the Friends Group every day and are so grateful for their support.
— MELISSA MCHUGH, LIBRARY DIRECTOR

Expanding Library Services in Shokan

We're excited to help in creating a new branch at the Legion Hall to better serve the Olive community.

Furthering Community Engagement

The Friends of the Library are presenting free monthly Music Café concerts, showcasing talented local musicians, plus a variety of special events throughout the year.

Book Donations & Fair Volunteers

When you donate books, you're not only downsizing your collection - you're helping us maintain a steady flow of book sales that directly support the Library's growth.

Exciting News! A generous community member is matching all donations made in May and June, up to $10,000-doubling the impact of your gift!

Your gift, no matter the size, will make a real difference in the lives of our community members. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Friends of the Olive Free Library.

You can also mail a check made out to Friends of the Olive Free Library to: PO Box 59, West Shokan, NY 12494.

As a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code ΕΙΝ: 84-2498800, your donation is fully tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.


Volunteer Opportunities

Want to Join Us?

All our fundraising efforts and events are made possible by volunteers. Here are a few ways you can get involved.

  • Volunteer at events such as Olive Day, the Holiday Craft Fair, or the Book Fair.

  • Provide snacks, desserts and beverages for events.

  • Bake cookies or provide snacks for events.

  • Share your unique skills, talents, or expertise.

  • Join our organizational and planning teams.

  • Donate money to the Friends Group to help us support the Olive Library.


Image showing people gathered around a delicious looking buffet style table of food. The people look happy and are embracing

Meeting Schedule

2025 Friends Meeting Schedule:
January 9 April 3 July 3 October 2
January 25* May 1 August 7 November 6
February 6 June 5 September 4 December 4
*Annual Planning Meeting

The Friends of the Olive Free Library meet on the first Thursday of the month at 4:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Meetings are open to the public.


Past Events

Recap Video

Dolly Forever

2025 Fundraisers

Annual Appeal - May
Library Fair - June 7
Garden Tour - July 12
Olive Day - September 6
Holiday Craft Fair - December 13