Friends of Shasta County Libraries

Mission Statement:

The Friends of Shasta County Libraries (FOSCL) promotes, supports, and enhances Shasta County's Library programs, resources and partnerships with the community.

More About Us:

We are a grassroots organization entirely composed of volunteers. We have no paid employees; operational expenses include printing and mailing a quarterly newsletter, liability insurance, website, CPA firm, and miscellaneous expenses. All other funds directly support Redding, Anderson, and Burney Libraries. Current funding for FY 2023-24 includes $13,000 Hot Off The Press/Lucky Day, Overdrive/Libby $15,000, Library collection $5,000; Programs Adults $6,000, Summer Reading $10,000, Teens $1,800, Youth department $7,000, First Five Shasta Grant $2,000.

This year we have increased the funding for the Summer Reading program to $10,000 from $9,000.  This will allow the libraries to increase the quality of the programs provided and increase the number of participants. The Shasta County Libraries provide opportunities for everyone in Shasta County, from the poorest to the wealthiest, and the youngest to the oldest, to participate in the materials and programs offered to the public. The Summer Reading Program is an excellent example of how the library benefits the entire population of Shasta County. It encourages parents to read to their preschool children and their older children.  Students who participate read books throughout the summer, which helps them maintain their reading proficiency, thus making them better prepared for the new school year. Last year's Library Summer Reading Program had 1,581 participants registered for all three branches. They gave away 506 Books as prizes for children. 286 Medals given for kids. 795,775 minutes read (teen and under). 2,574 Books read by adults. All of the Summer Reading and prizes, programs, and other resources are funded and provided by FOSCL.  

FOSCL has contributed over 1.4 million dollars since 1979. Our funds are from membership, Bookstore and Patio Book Sales, Giving Tuesday, Adopt-A-Book, and donations. The amount raised steadily decreases year by year.  For example, in 2010, the Bookstore projected sales of $72,000 in FY 2022-23; the total amount was $30,607.47.

Giving Tuesday Goal:

Is to raise $5,000.00 for the Summer Reading Program.