'Stand Up for Standout Friends' Returns For 2024!

In our decades of work with Friends, MALF’s board has picked up on an interesting disconnect. Most volunteer-run groups are fortunate to boast at least a few “standout” members – movers and shakers whose dedication, creativity and boundless energy help the organization overcome obstacles and adapt to meet new needs. What is lacking, in contrast, are good opportunities to acknowledge these outstanding contributors.

In recognition of this fact, MALF created its annual “Stand Up for Standout Friends” program in 2016. And in the years since, we have recognized more than 100 exemplary Friends!

While that feels a significant milestone, we know it only scratches the surface of library-loving volunteers worthy of a little public recognition. With this in mind, Stand Up for Standout Friends is back for 2024! We welcome you to put forward your nominee any time between now and July 26.

Recipients will be honored this fall in several ways, including:

    •  A personalized, matted and frameable Certificate of Recognition
    •  Special acknowledgment during MALF’s fall conference
    •  Official notification, tendered by MALF, to your local Mayor’s office
    •  Permanent place of honor in MALF’s online Gallery of Friends

What constitutes standout work?
In short, that is up to you! Some may wish to acknowledge a current or former board member or other executive for their contributions in a leadership role. Others may choose to honor a Friend who has been with their organization since the beginning. You are also welcome to bestow the honorific based on number of hours volunteered, amount of money raised, or any mix of these and other factors.

Click here to learn more about the program and to access the application form. Direct any questions not addressed on our website to info@mnlibraryfriends.org or 651-366-6492.