No Library in South Walton?????? Unthinkable, right?? That was the case until1986, when a group of citizens led by John Foster rented a small storefront next to the Santa Rosa Beach Post Office to start a library….with used books!…
Community response was overwhelming. Inundated with so many books and so many people volunteering their time and talent, the volunteer library took over
several more storefronts and began offering adult and children’s programs, space for local historical collections, exhibit space for local artists; Friends of the Coastal Branch Library as a 501c3 non-profit was established. In 1993, Walton County allocated funds for rent and part time staff at the storefront library.
In 1998, Friends of the Coastal Branch Library initiated a Capital Fund Campaign to build the Coastal Branch Library. Again, the Community response
was overwhelming; individual donations exceeded State and County dollars! At a cost of $2million dollars, the present Coastal Branch Library opened its doors
in 2001.
Friends of the Coastal Branch Library’s mission remains the same: to support the programs, activities and equipment needs of the Coastal Branch Library, supplementing County and State funding. As a non-profit tax deductible entity, the Friends often qualify for various grant monies. (see programs).
Just like in the old days, The Friends solicit donations of used books, games, puzzles, CD’s, etc for resale in the Book Shop, annual book sales, and membership dues. While members volunteer on the Board of Directors, volunteer in the Friends’ Book Shop which is open daily, arrange art exhibits and
initiate a variety of programs, there is no obligation to “volunteer”. Simple membership supports the mission!
Please consider becoming a Friend..