The mission of the Friends of the Piedmont Avenue Branch Library is to advocate for the Piedmont Avenue Branch library through collaboration, outreach and financial support.


Friends of PAL is a 501 (c)  (3)  California nonprofit and our Tax ID # is 84-4203055.  We formed in 1993 to support the Piedmont Avenue Branch Library when our library was facing budget cuts and possible closure.  We continue to support our library highlighting the vital role it plays in our community.

It is especially important to our seniors and to the Piedmont Avenue Elementary School.  The Friends advocate for our and other Oakland libraries.

Book and Bake Sales and donations allow us to sponsor programs like the popular Baby Café, the Children’s Summer Reading Program, visits of naturalists, and our crafts programs.  We also produce the monthly newsletter, the HOOT as part of our outreach program.  Plus, we conducted a neighborhood survey on library needs and we fund events at the library.

Our library is a vital resource and community hub.  Join us in supporting our library.  Join Friends of Pal by clicking here. Our work is important and it’s fun!

Board of Directors 2024:

President: Joanna Smith
Secretary: Arleen Feng
Treasurer: Ronile Lahti