Friends of the Libraries

What we do

The Friends play a special role in connecting the University Libraries to the greater community and enriching the campus and community through thought-provoking, entertaining, and intellectually engaging programs.

By joining the Friends of the Libraries, you will:

• Provide important support to assure that the resources of this great library are extended to promote library outreach and staff development.
• Continue the Friends’ important role in supporting University Libraries outreach, in creating innovative programs, and in encouraging use and appreciation of its remarkable resources.
• Benefit all University of Minnesota students and faculty — and people throughout Minnesota who rely on the Libraries for information.

All Friends members receive:

• Invitations to lectures, exhibit openings, author readings, and other special events at the University Libraries.
• Discounts at the University of Minnesota Bookstores located in Coffman Memorial Union.
• Subscriptions to publications for Friends and supporters of the Libraries.

Want to borrow a book?

Supporters at the $80 level ($40 for members of the University of Minnesota Alumni Association and the UMN Retirees Association) receive borrowing privileges and unlimited access to electronic journals, magazines, and newspaper subscriptions from public workstations at any Twin Cities campus library.

How to join or renew and gain borrowing privileges

• Complete the online form (you will be redirected to the University of Minnesota Foundation’s online giving form)
• Request borrowing privileges by specifying “I am requesting (or renewing) a Friends library borrowing card” in the Special Instructions box.

Please note: It can take several days after making your online donation before your borrowing privileges are renewed or created. Your donation is tax deductible, therefore donations are non refundable.

Need library access immediately?

If you have an immediate need for borrowing, please visit Wilson Library in person to request or renew your Friends library card. 

• Wilson Library business hours and directions

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Membership Levels

• Member: $40 annual donation
• Donor/Borrowing privileges: $80 annually
  • $40 annually for University of Minnesota Alumni Association members
  • $40 annually for University of Minnesota Retirees Association members
  • $30 for recently graduated students, within one year
• Borrowing privileges for organizations
  • $250 per year base rate
  • $80 per year for nonprofit organizations