Marching Into Women’s History Month

Honoring the Resilient Women Leaders

of the Friends of Beverly Hills Library

By Tracey Wilen-Daugenti

The Friends of the Beverly Hills Library has played a crucial role in supporting literacy programs and fostering a sense of community in Beverly Hills. At the heart of this group are dedicated women volunteers who have been instrumental in driving the organization's success.

Established in 1959, The Friends of the Beverly Hills Library boasts a rich history. The Friends store, located in the library lobby, resembles a trendy Indie bookshop — a unique space offering a broad and edgy collection at a nominal price. It creates a cozy atmosphere with seating and nooks reminiscent of a neighborhood bar, where locals share ideas, but the elixir is ink.

The Friends consist of 25 board officers and directors, plus past presidents who meet monthly, serve on various committees, and volunteer in the bookstore and upstairs organizing and pricing books.

What distinguishes these women is their dedication to partnering with the library to provide funds for various programming at the library for adults and children through book sales and events.

NOTEWORTHY INITIATIVES INCLUDE:

• The Story Time reading program for babies, toddlers, and families.

• The Book Club for Adults boasts a large, enthusiastic following throughout Los Angeles.

• The Free Summer Reading Club has kept thousands of local kids engaged and excited about reading.

• The Delivery program of library materials to the homebound and 85+.

The Friends of the Beverly Hills Library stands as a testament to the power of women volunteers in Beverly Hills. With strong local women leaders at the helm, the organization continues to thrive, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and educational landscape of Beverly Hills.

Dr. Tracey Wilen-Daugenti serves on the board of the Friends of the Library Beverly Hills, contributing to the Bookstore Operations, Marketing, and Membership committees.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE

444 N REXFORD DRIVE, BEVERLY HILLS | 310-288-2209

FRIENDSOFBHPL.ORG | FRIENDSOFBEVERLYHILLSLIBRARY@GMAIL.COM

DONATIONS: LIBRARYDONATIONS@BEVERLYHILLS.ORG