the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, on September 18, 2025, Ridgewood Public Library’s two support groups united to form the Friends Foundation of the Ridgewood Public Library, streamlining volunteer efforts and fundraising for Bergen County’s beloved cultural hub. This merger eliminates confusion, cuts costs, and fuels vibrant programs and future growth. From community events to library renovations, here’s why this move is a big win for Ridgewood in 2025!
A Unified Vision: Friends and Foundation Join Forces
The Friends of the Ridgewood Public Library and the Ridgewood Public Library Foundation have merged into a single 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Friends Foundation of the Ridgewood Public Library, announced co-presidents Paul McCarthy and Joanie Harrington. Previously, the Friends focused on community-driven fundraising for programs and outreach, while the Foundation managed endowments for long-term projects like renovations. Now, one entity handles it all, based at 125 N. Maple Ave, Ridgewood, NJ.
“This makes it less confusing to support the library,” McCarthy said, noting that donors and volunteers now have a single point of contact. The merger, effective September 2025, enhances efficiency and amplifies the library’s role in Bergen County’s 78-member Cooperative Library System.
Why It Matters: Streamlined Support for a Cultural Hub
The Friends Foundation strengthens Ridgewood Library’s mission to deliver top-tier programs, like the upcoming Floyds Row concert, and fund major upgrades. By reducing overhead costs, as Harrington noted, the group can “raise greater awareness of the library’s value” and boost financial support. Library Director Lorri Steinbacher called the merger a “new phase of support,” praising the group’s passion. In Bergen County, where cultural events like the Fall Craft Fair thrive, this unified effort ensures the library remains a community cornerstone in 2025.
Benefits for Bergen County: More Programs, Less Confusion
The merger simplifies donating and volunteering, making it easier for Ridgewood residents and beyond to get involved. The Foundation will continue funding vibrant events, children’s programs, and renovations while ensuring sustainable growth. Located near Village Hall, the library is a key player in Bergen County’s cultural scene, alongside initiatives like Veterans Field’s new lights. This streamlined approach promises more impactful community engagement in 2025.
How to Support Ridgewood’s Friends Foundation
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Donate: Contribute at SupportRidgewoodLibrary.org.
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Volunteer: Sign up via the website or call 201-670-5600.
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Stay Informed: Visit RidgewoodLibrary.org or northjersey.com for updates.
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Spread the Word: Share with hashtags like #RidgewoodLibrary and #NJCommunitySupport.
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Attend Events: Join library programs like the September 28 Floyds Row concert.
Support Ridgewood’s library revolution—get involved with the Friends Foundation in 2025!
Source: Adapted from Ridgewood Public Library and NorthJersey.com announcements.
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Haven’t been to a library in decades, except for passport photos. I don’t understand the relevance in today’s digital world. Informationally, nearly $3 million in Village tax dollars.
Do you have any kids?
Think about it 😩
I love the library and use it often. Was thinking about making a very large donation, however I took a pause when I thought that some of these dollars would be used to fund the Schedler center and do not want my tax dollars or any library donations to be put forth onto that project. Because I have no control over where that money goes and do not feel that the village is genuine in their approach, I will not be making a donation at this time until I am aware of the nature of what that funding is.