Libraries store books and strengthen communities by serving as a resource for the public to access technology, early childhood learning programs and adult educational opportunities. Although American libraries are traditionally funded by public dollars, many libraries like the City of Dallas Public Library have found that city funding may not always meet the growing literacy needs of its patrons. 

Friends of the Dallas Public Library (FODPL) was created to support the City of Dallas Public Library system in its delivery of resources, services and information to the Dallas community.  FODPL is the Dallas Public Library’s (DPL) dedicated nonprofit partner aiding the expansion of early childhood literacy programs, adult education and programming, summer reading programs, student field trip opportunities, innovation grants, library staff development, and capital funding.  Since 1950, FODPL has underwritten more than $50 million in capital funding and materials acquisition and provided more than $500,000 between July 2020 and June 2021 alone. This year, that commitment includes $200,000 to refresh all 30 children's libraries, a partnership to fund the library's master strategic and facilities plan and update the Kahn Pavilion Discovery Wall technology.

Understanding the growing need to expand adult literacy opportunities and student reading programs throughout the city of Dallas, Atmos Energy first partnered with FODPL in 2011, focused on supporting English language learning classes, General Education Development (GED) certification, student field trips and summer literacy programs. As part of its commitment to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities, Atmos Energy has since contributed more than $1.5 million to these innovative efforts and is the proud sponsor of programs including:

• Free general English classes and GED test preparation classes in Spanish at the West Dallas Public Library and Bachman Lake Library Literacy Centers.
• The GED Testing Center, located on the third floor of the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, and the cost of the GED test for any student in need of assistance. 
• Early childhood and elementary level programs at Bookmarks at NorthPark Center.
• The Discovery Wall, a 196 square foot flat screen monitor located on the second floor of the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, leverages Cisco Realtime TelePresence technology to connect Dallas students with destinations around the globe including zoos, museums and more.
• Transportation costs to and from the Discovery Wall for local schools in need of sponsorship.

Friends of the Dallas Public Library has played a crucial role in the city, supporting literacy and educational programs and promoting the library's cause in the public arena. It serves as a voice for the Dallas Public Library and their indispensable role in our community and for 72 years has helped enhance libraries by raising money for programming, staff development and much more, beyond what the city budget provides. 

To learn more and support Friends of the Dallas Public Library, please visit: https://supportdpl.org/