This partnership between local independent bookstore Westminster Books and the Friends of the Fredericton Public Library has seen over 5000 books added to the library’s collection since it was first launched in 1997.
The Fredericton Public Library’s Adopt-a-Book program is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Created in 1997 as a partnership between local independent bookstore Westminster Books and the Friends of the Fredericton Public Library, Adopt-a-Book is the library’s largest annual fundraiser, supplying hundreds of new books for the collections at both the downtown and Nashwaaksis libraries.
The program sees more than 200 books added to library shelves each year.
Since 2019, local brewery Graystone has been recognising supporters of the program by offering a complimentary pint to anyone who spends more than $20 adopting a book at Westminster Books.
“Adopt a Book is the flagship fundraiser of the Friends of the Fredericton Public Library. We look forward to it each year and we know the community does too,” said Julia Stewart, Library Director, Fredericton Public Library. “Seeing the entire community from Graystone to Westminster showing so much library love is awesome!”
The program is very much a win-win-win situation. Every book adopted supports local libraries, a locally owned Fredericton bookstore, and the community.
How can you adopt a book?
For the month of May, Westminster Books will display books from the library’s wish list. These include adult fiction and non-fiction, and books for children and teens. When you purchase one of these books during the month of May you become its “adopter”. Westminster Books provides a 20% discount off the purchase price, and you can sign a bookplate that will be placed inside your adopted book. You will also receive a tax receipt from the Friends of the Fredericton Public Library for your generous donation. Your adopted book is then added to the library’s collection, for you and everyone to read and enjoy.
Adopt-a-Book 2022 runs May 1-31.
