Friends of The Seattle Public Library

 

A: The Friends of The Seattle Public Library operates an innovative 300 square foot retail shop in Seattle’s Central Library. The shop is the public face of the Friends and represents our longstanding commitment to serve The Seattle Public Library. Shop revenue supports programs, services, events, and special initiatives of The Seattle Public Library.

Designed by internationally acclaimed Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, the Seattle Central Library is a major draw for tourists and locals. The FriendShop is a legacy of those who started the original shop years ago, and those who supported, nurtured, and volunteered there. We cordially invite all former FriendShop volunteers, as well as all other Friends supporters and library lovers, to visit the FriendShop.

A: The FriendShop offers a delightful collection of gifts including original work by Northwest artists. You’ll find jewelry, cards and books as well as distinctive merchandise with images from the striking architecture of the Central Library.

 

Q: What is The Shop architecture based on?
A: Images below depict the innovative architectural design of the FriendShop, which is based on library compact shelving. The shop opens and closes using a track mounted in the floor, creating a one-of-a-kind space to display many exciting kinds of merchandise.

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Q: How can I sign up for volunteering in The Shop?

A: A professional retail management team directs the FriendShop, but it is the volunteers who make the Shop special. Volunteers welcome and assist visitors and library users, sell and stock an exciting array of gift items, and provide information about the Friends. Volunteers must be comfortable working with the public, supportive of the Library and the Friends and willing to assist others. Responsibilities during each shift include selling, cashiering, stocking and merchandising. Most volunteer shift commitments are 3-4 hours once a week.

Check out all our volunteer opportunities, fill out an application and send it in! We'd love to have you!!! Please contact us at friendshop@spl.org with any questions about volunteering your time for the FriendShop.