The Friends of the Tuscaloosa Public Library (FOTPL) announced that its on‑site bookstore generated $102,298 in sales during the 2025‑26 fiscal year. This milestone represents the fourth year in a row the bookstore has exceeded the $100,000 mark, a record that underscores the strength of community support for the library.

Consistent Growth and Impact

According to the organization’s press release, the Friends have exceeded $100,000 in bookstore sales each year since the 2022‑23 fiscal year. Over the past twelve years, the fundraising effort has contributed more than $1 million to the Tuscaloosa Public Library, helping sustain programs, expand resources, and launch new initiatives that benefit residents of West Alabama.

Volunteer‑Driven Success

“We are so very proud of what the Friends of the Library, our volunteers, and our community have accomplished together,” said Bess Miller, chair of the FOTPL Board of Directors. Miller highlighted that the milestone is not just about the dollar amount but also about the “incredible community effort behind it.” Volunteers donate countless hours sorting donations, organizing the shelves, and greeting customers, while donors provide the books, movies, music, puzzles, and games that fill the store’s inventory.

Benefits to Library Services

The revenue generated by the bookstore goes directly to the Tuscaloosa Public Library. Over the past decade, the Friends have averaged $92,000 in annual financial support, enabling the library to maintain existing services and explore new programming for families, students, and seniors. Executive Director Jennifer Pearson praised the partnership, stating, “Their support goes far beyond the funds they raise. They give countless hours to sorting donations, organizing and maintaining the bookstore, helping customers, and finding new ways to make the bookstore successful. That hard work and dedication make a meaningful difference to the library and to the people we serve.”

Location and Hours

The Friends of the Library Bookstore is located on the left side of the Tuscaloosa Public Library on Jack Warner Parkway, with an entrance at the building’s back corner. All sales are cash or check only. The store operates Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from noon to 3 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; it is closed on Mondays and Sundays.

Looking Ahead

With a solid track record of fundraising and community involvement, the Friends of the Tuscaloosa Public Library plan to continue expanding the bookstore’s offerings and outreach. Their goal remains to provide reliable financial support that allows the library to serve as a hub for education, culture, and community connection throughout Tuscaloosa and the surrounding region.

Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.