Friends of the University Park Public Library

Irvine, California

For more than 50 years, the Friends of the Library have supported the University Park Public Library—raising funds, expanding resources, and running a beloved community bookstore stocked entirely by neighbors like you. Every book you buy, hour you give, and gift you make helps keep our library thriving. Come browse, lend a hand, or give back. We'd love to welcome you.

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© Friends of the University Park Public Library.

About

Founded in 1975, the Friends of the University Park Public Library are a volunteer-powered nonprofit dedicated to supporting our library in every way we can. Over the years, we've contributed more than $1.5 million toward collections, children's programs, technology, and facility improvements, including the major 2009 library renovation we championed.Our bookstore has been a neighborhood fixture for decades, stocked almost entirely through community donations. From bestselling novels and children's books to comics, rare finds, and large collections in many foreign languages, every visit turns up something new. Our shelves have even drawn book lovers from as far as Carlsbad and Lake Arrowhead. Every purchase gives books a second life and sends the proceeds right back to the library.Most of all, we're powered by a small and loyal group of volunteers who believe libraries enrich lives. Together, we hope to keep the University Park Public Library a vibrant place for learning, creativity, and community for many generations to come.

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Donate

Support the library—your way.DONATE BOOKS & MEDIA
We gladly accept gently used books, audiobooks, DVDs, games, and puzzles during bookstore operating hours.To make sure donated items can be put to good use, we are unable to accept:- Torn, stained, water-damaged, heavily marked, deteriorated, or otherwise damaged materials
- Encyclopedias or large/oversized dictionaries
- Magazines, periodicals, or journals, including National Geographic and Architectural Digest
- Cassette tapes or VHS tapes
- Outdated textbooks, computer books, travel guides, medical/health, political/current affairs, financial, business, or other reference books more than 5 years oldDue to space constraints, please limit each donation to 2 bags or small boxes. Donations must be accepted by a bookstore volunteer and should never be left outside when the bookstore is closed.Have a larger donation or questions about what we can accept? Please contact us before your visit and we'll be happy to help.MAKE A FINANCIAL GIFT
Monetary donations fund programming, children's initiatives, technology, and collections that reach thousands of visitors each year. Pick up a donation form at the bookstore or download one here.HONOR A LOVED ONE
A gift of $500 in memory of a loved one, or $1,000 or more honoring someone living, is recognized with a personalized gold leaf on our Memory Garden Tree—a lasting tribute that helps future generations enjoy a welcoming library.No matter the size, every gift makes a difference. We welcome anything you can give to help support the library.

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Volunteer

Looking for a meaningful way to give back?Our doors stay open because volunteers keep them that way—and there's always room for one more. Volunteers help organize donations, stock shelves, assist customers, prepare for book sales, and keep our bookstore welcoming. No special experience is required—just a love of books and community.How to join: You must be at least 21 to volunteer. Pick up an application at the bookstore or download one here, then submit it to the Friends of the Library during operating hours. That's it—we'll take it from there.In return, you'll meet wonderful people, discover great books, and make a lasting impact in Irvine.

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