The Friends of the Oakland Public Library (The Friends) are hosting an Open House to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the organization at The Bookmark Bookstore at 933 Broadway in Oakland on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. – a festive event designed for book and library lovers that is free and open to the public.
Established in 1950, the Friends awarded $250,000 in grants to the Oakland Public Library (OPL) in FY 2024–25 alone for programs and facility improvements. Membership has grown to a record 1,400, and since 1993 the Friends have granted $4.5 million to OPL through memberships, book sales, and donations.
“The Friends’ 75th anniversary is a testament to generations of volunteers, donors, and members united by the belief that libraries are essential,” said Kathryn Sterbenc, president of the Friends of the OPL. “Our Oakland libraries make our diverse community stronger by supporting the culture, education and welfare of all. Come celebrate this milestone with the Friends!”
The 75th anniversary celebration will feature these activities and opportunities:
- Inspirational speakers: Hear from OPL’s Director of Library Services, Jamie Turbak and Oakland’s 2025 Youth Poet Laureate, Cael Dueñas-Lara (3 p.m. start time)
- Book Art – Everyone is invited to make their own bookmark at the Bookmark
- Free book for kids – All kids 12 and under can get a free book from our prize cart
- Free cookbook giveaway for all Friends members. This year, The Bookmark processed a single donation of 10,000 cookbooks — stacked, they’d reach the height of San Francisco’s Salesforce Tower!
- Complimentary beverages and treats to enjoy while supplies last.
- Book tributes and deals – All proceeds to go to the library:
- Become a member (Annual dues start at $25 for individuals, with special prices for full-time students and seniors)
- Celebrate a person who inspired your passion for reading ($25 donation)
- Get a book vase or a special edition 75th anniversary tote bag ($75 donation)
- Book a behind-the-scenes tour of the Main Library! ($250 donation)
- Run a bookstore for a day! ($500 donation)
- Be a librarian for a day! ($750 donation)
The Bookmark Bookstore
The Bookmark has enjoyed a fantastic first year at its new location, 933 Broadway in an 1880s building on the Delger Block at 10th Street, just steps from 12th Street BART. Open seven days a week and staffed by a rotation of over 200 passionate volunteers, the store offers a curated selection of gently used books and media, with all proceeds supporting OPL.
Originally opened in 1992 on Washington Street in Old Oakland, The Bookmark has served as the face of the Friends for over thirty years and provides a steady revenue stream for library programs and services. The new location on Broadway and 10th Street features a separate donation center and office dedicated to managing contributions and online sales, with an inviting, light-filled retail space for visitors and volunteers.
Led by store manager Erin Rivero and supported by volunteers who stock shelves, sort donations, list items online, and assist customers, The Bookmark offers most books at $3–$6, with all proceeds benefiting the OPL system.
About The Friends of the Oakland Public Library
The organization was formed when local library lovers banded together to support the operation of the then-new Main Library at 125 14th Street and to help maintain the special collections housed there. The mission of the Friends of the OPL expanded to support the entire Oakland Public Library system.
Projects that the Friends support at Oakland’s libraries include grants for the Youth Poet Laureate Program, Branch Services, the African American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO), OPL Administration, Teen Services, Community Relations, Adult Services/Outreach, and Children’s Services. More details in our Fact Sheet.