Friends of the UNT Libraries

Since its inception in 1981, the Friends of the UNT Libraries has contributed monies for the purchase of books, manuscripts, maps, and other materials that the University Libraries could not otherwise afford. These purchases have supported the development of the Rare Book and Texana Collections and have helped to make them a recognized part of the cultural benefits of the Denton area.

The Friends organization has contributed to major events in the Denton community and the University. They supported the Denton Sesquicentennial program through a major contribution to the publication of Portraits of Denton. In addition, the Friends purchased the much-praised Of Birds and Texas in honor of the University's Centennial Celebration.

The Friends organization also supports preservation and exhibit activities, underwrites the "Student Assistant of Distinction" Award, as well as giving much time and effort to publicizing the fine research collections of the UNT Libraries.

Activities

During the year the members of the Friends enjoy a varied schedule of activities such as receptions and poetry readings, as well as an annual spring banquet. This gala event includes a well-known speaker and the annual business meeting. Also of particular note has been the establishment of a series of workshops, covering such subjects as preservation and evaluation of books.

Organization

The Friends of the UNT Libraries was established in 1981 as an independent, non-profit, fund-raising group under the aegis of the University of North Texas. All donations are tax-deductible and support the collections of the Libraries and the activities of the Friends. An executive board is elected at the annual business meeting and acts as an advisory group to the Dean of Libraries.