Programs
The Friends sponsor several events at the library each year. The types of programs include musical and theatrical performances as well as guest speakers, and vary from year to year.
But there are several staple programs that the Friends sponsor each year. Our most well-known annual event is the ever-popular Night of Chocolate. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses - from donating baked goods for our event or gift cards for the event's random draw baskets - to the efforts of our volunteers - from baking to setup and serving - Night of Chocolate has been a very successful event for many years.
The Friends also award two to three scholarships each year to a resident student.
Night of Chocolate
For many years, our Night of Chocolate has been our most popular and successful fundraiser.
Our members and local businesses donate the baked goods for this ticketed event. Local businesses also donate to gift baskets which are awarded based on a random drawing at the end of the evening.
This fundraiser goes a long way to providing the money for our continued support of great programs at the library throughout the year, including concerts, cultural programs, and children's programs.
Scholarships
Each year, the Friends of Louis Bay 2nd award two scholarships of $500 each to Hawthorne residents who are graduating from high school and going on to higher education. The scholarships are awarded in memory of Marie Joynson, the group’s founder, to outstanding students who have demonstrated a passion for reading and learning.
Memorial Pool Free Book Cart
Beginning in 2017, the Friends has sponsored a free Book Cart at Memorial Pool during the summer season. Books for all ages are offered.