Who are the Friends of MHL?

The Friends of Memorial Hall Library are library patrons just like you and for over 45 years have raised money for Andover's Memorial Hall Library. Money is raised through membership fees, donations, and book sales – all activities that require the time and effort of volunteers. The money provides library programs and services to improve and enhance the library experience for the community.  

Mission

• To provide financial assistance to Memorial Hall Library to provide programs and services not funded by the town's budget.
• To encourage public support for and interest in Memorial Hall Library.
• To foster awareness and use of Memorial Hall Library, and to encourage the donation of time and assistance by townspeople to the library.

• The Friends provide special programs and services that expand and enrich the library's regular budget.
• These "extras" include concerts, readings, speakers, children's programs, teen programs, materials, and equipment.
• Each year, the Friends fund over $50,000 worth of programs and services that are not covered by the Town budget.
• Free or discounted passes  to area museums and attractions including the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and the Peabody Essex Museum.
• The public scanning station in the Reference Department.

Book Sales

The Friends hold multiple book sales each year. Book sales are held in Memorial Hall on the top floor of the library. All are welcome to shop the sale to find gently used books, DVDs, CDs, puzzles, and games at great prices. All proceeds go to the Friends to help fund library programs and services. Cash, checks, and credit cards accepted. 

Spring Book Sale

• Preview Night: Wednesday, 4/22, 5:30-8:30pm (Friends members enter free)
• Thursday, 4/23, 1:00-4:30pm
• Friday & Saturday, 4/24 & 4/25, 9:00am-4:30pm
• Sunday 4/26, 1:00-4:00pm (fill a bag for one low price on the last day)

The Friends are run by a board of volunteers who who help coordinate Friends activities. The Friends Board of Directors meets monthly from September through June and members are welcome to attend. Members are encouraged to attend the annual meeting each May to elect officers. 

Saturday, May 2, 2026

11:00am at Memorial Hall Library

Annual Meeting

Join the Friends on May 2nd for their Annual Meeting, tea, light refreshments, and a chance to learn more about the Friends. 

The Friends will be in Memorial Hall to share about the great things the members and volunteers have contributed to the library and community over the past year. There will be a brief business meeting and current members are invited to vote for the board of directors and officers for the coming year. 

All members are invited, please RSVP through the library's calendar to help us plan refreshments. This event is best suited for ages 8 and up. 

Find out more about the Board of Directors