Friends' Fundraising

The Friends run two main fund raising efforts: Novel Night and the Donation Appeal. Each is biennial.

Novel Night

This is the Friends’ signature fund raising event. Better than a whodunit, more stylish than a period romance and more fun than a rollicking good biography. It's the night that novels come to life all across Pelham. It happens on a Saturday night close to Thanksgiving every other (even) year and it’s a truly fun way for Pelham residents to support a great cause. Our next Novel Night is on Saturday November 17, 2012--and we'd love to see YOU there.

How it works 
By early September more than two dozen Pelham residents, some pairing with friends, agree to host a dinner in their homes for as few as 6 people or as many as 60. The hosts select a novel to be their dinner theme--on the night, they'll create settings and food to reflect their respective novels. Dinner guests will come in novel or festive attire. In late September invitations go out to all Pelhamites. Dinners are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis so guests are asked to make several choices. Dinner assignments are made in early November, giving guests enough time to re-read the novel and get their costumes ready.

On the Night 

The evening begins at 6p.m.with dinner at the hosts' homes. At 9 p.m., everyone comes together for the Gala featuring dessert, dancing, a silent auction and novel entertainment at the New York Athletic Club. If guests prefer, they can attend the Gala only. Either way, it's a wonderful way to enjoy yourself and support a great library at the same time.

Our Thanks 

First to the dinner hosts who put their hearts and souls--and dining rooms--into a great cause. We couldn't do this without all of you and we know it! We also want to thank local businesses for their support of our silent auction. And finally and most important--thanks to the people of Pelham who, every second year, rock it out for a Library we love.

Donation Appeal

The Friends send out an appeal letter every other year (when there is no Novel Night) and we are grateful to the many residents who support us. The appeal letters are sent to every residential and business address in the Town of Pelham. The mailing takes place after Thanksgiving time and is a great opportunity to make your year end giving.