History of Friends of Clark Memorial Library

On June 30, 2017, due to budget constraints, the Town of Clarkdale closed the town’s historic Clark Memorial Library (CML). On June 1, 2017, ten tenacious advocates met to discuss a way forward. They selected a board of directors to form a non-profit library friends group which was incorporated as “Friends of Clark Memorial Library” with the Arizona Corporation Commission. effective June 16, 2017. They filed for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the IRS. 

As a result, Corey Christians, Director of the Yavapai County Free Library District (YCFLD), met with Clarkdale Town Manager Gayle Mabery to propose YCFLD reopening CML as a branch library if the Town of Clarkdale would make the building available. FCML was expected to raise funds to pay for library materials and programs.  With Supervisor Randy Garrison’s support, an Inter-Governmental Agreement was approved by the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors and the Clarkdale Town Council in time for YCFLD to host a Grand Reopening Celebration and Book Sale on October 19, 2017, CML’s 90th Anniversary. In addition to book sale proceeds and private donations, a $3,500 donation, arranged by Dave Andrews, was made by the Clarkdale-Jerome Lions Club, which put Friends of CML well on the way to reaching its first fundraising goal.

Since CML reopened in 2017, FCML has not only purchased books, DVDs and other library materials, but also supported programs, events and activities such as the Summer Reading Program, writing and art classes, author talks, movies and of course, a party to celebrate CML’s anniversary each year. FCML operates the Book Shop in CML during regular library hours to help support our mission. 
 
Art in the Clark, a year-round program of FCML, showcases meaningful local art for the enjoyment of library patrons, sponsors art classes and artists’ receptions.

FCML has provided improvements, such as installing castors on the bookcases so they can be easily moved to open the main room for events, like author talks, workshops, movies and weekly Live Music @ the Clark performances. FCML purchased a movie screen, projector cart, a laptop, chairs and tables and supplies over the years. Starting July 1, 2026, YCFLD took over FCML’s role of paying for library materials. This change has allowed FCML to step up to fund programs like Tai Chi in addition to writing workshops and Live Music @ the Clark. You can get involved. We need your time and talent as well as your donations to keep Clark Memorial Library a center for our community.

How important are Friends groups?

They can literally make the difference between a budget cut and a budget increase for their libraries. For more than a century, Friends groups have been formed by citizens using their collective powers to ensure that American libraries remain viable. You can make a lasting difference for Clark Memorial Library by supporting Friends of CML!

To fulfill its mission Friends of CML needs Friends who can share their time, talent and treasure. Please consider becoming a Friend by making a tax deductible donation.  Friends of CML also needs capable people able to take necessary roles in the organization. YOU can help maintain CML as a community resource by getting involved.

To offer your time and/or suggestions, please email us at Friends@friendsofcml.org.
To make a financial contribution, please click the DONATE button below to access a secure PayPal page. Or, if you prefer, send a check or money order to:  Friends of Clark Memorial Library, PO Box 301, Clarkdale, AZ 86324.