What We Do
Friends of the Alameda Free Library (FAL) is a nonprofit organization with a simple but powerful mission: to ensure that the Alameda Free Library remains a thriving, well-resourced community hub for every resident. We do this in two ways — by raising funds to support library programs, and by bringing people together through events and activities that celebrate reading, learning and community.
Every single library program offered by the Alameda Free Library is made possible through FAL funding. From literacy education for adults to summer reading adventures for kids, your support — through donations, book purchases, and event attendance — is what keeps these programs alive.
Programs We Support
Alameda Reads — Adult Literacy
For more than 30 years, Alameda Reads has helped adult community members improve their reading and writing skills in a free, confidential and pressure-free environment. Through one-on-one tutoring, small group learning, and computer-assisted instruction, participants work toward personal goals at their own pace — whether that means reading to their children, advancing in the workplace or simply gaining greater independence as a community member.
Summer Reading Challenge
Every summer, the Summer Reading Challenge invites children, teens and adults to keep reading through the season. Free to participate, the two-month program runs from June 1 through July 31, with prizes awarded for time spent reading and expanded programming at all three library branches. It's one of the most beloved traditions at the Alameda Free Library — and FAL makes it possible.
Día de los Niños
Each spring, the library comes alive with the annual Día de los Niños celebration — a free, festive event honoring children and the joy of reading across cultures. Past celebrations have featured magic shows, bilingual music and dance performances, free face painting, health screenings for children, and plenty of food and fun for the whole family.
How We Raise Funds
FAL funds these programs through a variety of community-centered activities. When you shop at our bookstore, grab a coffee at the cafe or attend a concert or lecture, you're directly supporting the library.
Books & Bites Cafe
The Books & Bites Cafe is the only library cafe in the East Bay — and it's run entirely by volunteers. Whether you're catching up on reading, studying, meeting with your book club or just taking a break, the cafe is a warm and welcoming gathering place for all ages. The menu features Firebrand pastries, espresso drinks and hot items like pho and mac and cheese.
Books For Friends Bookshop
Opened in March 2022, Books For Friends is FAL's curated used bookshop located right inside the Main Branch of the Alameda Free Library. Carefully selected by our volunteers, the shelves are stocked with quality books across all genres at great prices — and every purchase goes directly toward supporting library programs. Open Wednesday through Saturday.
Alameda Used Book Sale
Three times a year — spring, summer, and fall — FAL hosts the beloved Alameda Used Book Sale in the Stafford Room of the Main Branch. Hundreds of books in every genre, plus DVDs, CDs, and magazines, are available at low prices with free admission. It's a community favorite and one of our biggest fundraisers of the year.
Live @ the Library
Live @ the Library brings live jazz to the library in an intimate, elegant evening setting. Held in the Stafford Room, these concerts offer an opportunity to enjoy outstanding local musicians while directly supporting library programs. Check our events calendar for upcoming performances.
Friends @ Home
Friends @ Home brings free educational programming directly to you via Zoom. Our online series features two types of events: Author Webinars, where you can hear directly from local and notable authors, and Art Docent Talks, monthly presentations by knowledgeable docents connected to museum exhibits across the Bay Area and beyond — made possible through a grant from the Alameda County Arts Commission. Many sessions are recorded and available to watch on demand.
Everything we do comes back to one goal: a stronger library for a stronger Alameda. Thank you for being part of it.