June 16, 2018

After years of planning and a year and a half of construction, the Advanced Learning Library held a grand opening for the public! The celebration included a ceremonial book brigade, ribbon cutting ceremony, and special programming throughout the day.

October 2013

Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer proclaimed October 20 - 26, 2013 to be the Friends of the Library Week! Our group was cited as an example for all in how volunteerism leads to positive civic engagement and the betterment of our community.

July 2013

The City Council approves the next step for a new Central Library at 711 W. Second St., the southwest corner of Second and McLean. This more modern library will allow for better access to technology, larger youth gathering and learning spaces, as well as other improvements.

October 1991

The Friends opens the Used Book Store on the first floor of the Central Library. What started out as a gift shop in 1966 in reorganized and stocked with Library discards and donations from the public. Over the years, the store has become a dependable source of funds for the benefit of the Library system. 

1967

Grand opening of the Central Library at 223 S. Main St., Wichita, KS 67202. This new location provides a home base for the Friends and leads to increased interest and membership in the organization. 

1963

The organization is incorporated under the laws of the state of Kansas becoming the Friends of the Wichita Public Library, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization. 

1938

Establishment of the Friends of the Wichita Public Library organization.