FOCAL provides a national support and resource network to assist in the formation and promotion of Friends of Libraries groups throughout the library community in Canada. Friends of Libraries are volunteers acting collectively and independently to preserve, promote and strengthen library services in harmony with library management and policies.

OUR VALUES

Value #1          Value of Libraries

FOCAL believes libraries inspire and enrich the human spirit and are a focal point in a community, providing access to the world of knowledge, information, and pleasure for all people.

Value #2         Leadership

To provide leadership and guidance for the formation of library Friends groups nationally with the provision of resource materials and active support.

 

Value #3            Partnership

FOCAL partners with national and other library organizations for mutual benefit.

 

Value #4            Communication

Communication through media and electronic channels with current and potential FOCAL members, uniting these groups with relevant information and a national collective sense of belonging to the Friends’ concept.

 

Value #5            Commitment

FOCAL is to be perceived as an effective and active body dedicated to the furtherance of Friends of Libraries nationally and which values with respect and appreciation the worth of volunteers devoted to library support.

 

Value #6            Sponsorship

FOCAL values the support of corporate sponsors and granting agencies.

 

Value #7            Diversity

FOCAL welcomes the participation of all Friends groups, valuing their diversity

OUR VISION

Friends of Canadian Libraries (FOCAL) strives to be a recognized and valued national volunteer organization, active and effective in delivering resources and support.  FOCAL employs communication technology to network with its members and the library community.  FOCAL is a financially viable non-profit organization funded by membership, donations, sponsorship and grants.

 

OUR GOALS AND ACTION PLAN

Communications: Using a variety of communication methods (print, voice and electronic) maximize the networking and information sharing potential of the FOCAL membership.

Partnership: Create a schedule of regional meetings and workshops to bring Friends groups together.

Leadership: Increase the awareness of the role of Friends of Libraries, and the existence of FOCAL as a national volunteer organization, active and effective in delivering resources and support to Friends of libraries.