Friends of the Dallas Public Library, a nonprofit organization that supports Dallas Public Library, celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special Literary Lions Luncheon at the Arts District Mansion on April 9 to mark its ‘diamond’ anniversary and to honor the Dallas individuals and families who helped establish the organization in 1950. 

Taking place during National Library Week, the event featured keynote remarks from award-winning author Ben Fountain on the importance of libraries in our communities. FODPL Board Chair Ken Benson, Executive Director Mary Wilonsky, and Anniversary Co-Chairs Anne Besser and Nicole Paquette also shared their thanks for the nearly 300 library advocates in attendance and their ongoing support of the organization that works to bolster access to free, well-funded public libraries.

All proceeds benefited the 28 full-service library branches across Dallas, the children’s branch, Bookmarks at NorthPark Center, the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, and nearly 450 dedicated Dallas library staff members. Funds will also support various educational programs that Dallas Public Library offers.

For more information about the Friends of the Dallas Public Library, visit https://supportdpl.org/home-1.