Friends of the Library

The Friends of the Baldwin City Library organization was established in 1986 to help raise funds, promote publicity and help the progress of the library. If you’re interested in joining the friends, fill out the Online Membership Form and pay securely online, or print out and send in the Printable Membership Form.

Contact us at FriendsofBaldwinLibrary@gmail.com

FOL Scholarship Details: The Friends of the Baldwin City Library Scholarship is an annual scholarship offered to up to two graduating high school seniors (class of 2024) in an effort to support them with their further education. This year, 2024, we are planning to offer two, $1,000 scholarships. This application is available, both hard-copy and electronically, from March 1, 2024 and is due by April 5, 2024.

Hard-copy applications can be accepted at the library, and electronic copies should be sent to dr.robyn.long@gmail.com

Carl Butell Scholarship Details: The Friends of the Baldwin City Library Carl Butell Scholarship is a one-time scholarship offered to a graduating high school senior (class of 2024) in an effort to support them with their further education in their first two years. This can be post-secondary education of any kind, including technical college, 2- and 4-year baccalaureate degrees, cosmetology and healthcare programs, culinary school, and formal apprenticeships.

The scholarship, which honors Carl Butell and remembers his commitment to community, is open to graduating high school seniors (class of 2024) residing within the boundaries of USD 348.

In 2024, we are offering $8,500, divided evenly between the first and second year.

The application is available, both hard copy and electronically, on February 1, 2024 and is due by April 52024. Hard-copy applications can be accepted at the Baldwin Library and electronic copies should be sent to dr.robyn.long@gmail.com

2023-2024 Friends of the Library Board

  • Mary Ontko – President
  • Kathy Gerstner – Vice President
  • Cindi Thomas – Treasurer
  • Drew Ising– Secretary
  • Robyn Long – BookTalk Committee Chair & Scholarship Committee Chair
  • Barbara Mathews
  • Erik Bailey
  • Jill Boyle
  • Tammy Lamb


Thank you to everyone who has joined Friends in 2023 so far!

Join now and your name will be added to our list.

Historic Partnerships

In 2020, Friends of the Library received a Douglas County Heritage Council Conservation grant in partnership with the City of Baldwin City and the Lumberyard Arts Center. This grant allowed our library to promote and preserve Baldwin City history in multiple ways, including establishing a Lucy Sullivan walking tour; historic games and toys for check out, and various educational materials and experiences.

Click here to access the tour!

Watch our August 2020 presentation and discussion with Watkins Museum about Lucy Sullivan & the 19th Amendment here!