Embedded Files
Frequently Asked Questions for Members
Frequently Asked Questions for Members
How much of my membership fee benefits the library?
After operational expenses such as online services and printing, all monies raised by FOMPL go to Martinsburg-Berkeley County Public Libraries to be used at the library’s discretion.
The membership fee is more than I want to pay, can I still be involved?
You may volunteer with the library directly. To do so simply visit one of the branch libraries and fill out a volunteer application. Or, if you wish to be involved with the Friends of the MPL you can exchange 10 volunteer hours for one year of membership. No one is excluded and all are welcome.
Does this provide me with membership in Hedgesville Friends? or North Berkeley Friends?
No. Friends groups are specific to each branch of the Martinsburg-Berkeley County library system. However, funds raised by Friends of MPL are given to the library with no conditions and benefit the entire system at the library’s discretion.
What do I get for my membership?
A quarterly newsletter detailing activities and volunteer opportunities.
The satisfaction of supporting our community through our public library.
The chance to decide ways to raise funds and support the library through your member vote.
Attendance at membership events such as meetings and occasional social activities.
How Does FOMPL Membership Renewal Work?
Beginning in 2026, all annual memberships are set up to auto-renew one year from the date your membership was originally purchased. You will only be charged once per year, and your membership will automatically renew on the anniversary of your original purchase date. This ensures uninterrupted access to all of your member benefits without any extra steps on your part!
Please note: Your membership will auto-renew and the Givebutter system will automatically charge you again each year on the anniversary of your original purchase. If you wish to cancel your recurring membership, you can do so at any time using the secure management link provided in your email receipts.
If you became a member in 2025, we will be sending out membership renewal reminder emails with all of the information you need beginning in April 2026, approximately one month before your membership expires. Keep an eye on your inbox so you do not miss your renewal for 2026!
If you have any questions about your membership or renewal, please reach out to us at fompl@mbcpl.org and we will be happy to help.
How Do Friends of the Martinsburg Public Library Used Book Sales Work?
Beginning in 2026, the Friends of the Martinsburg Public Library are taking over used book sales from the library staff. Our book sales feature a mix of gently used books from two sources, community donations and books removed from the library's collection through a process called weeding. Weeding is a standard library practice of retiring books that have not been checked out in five years, allowing the library to make room for newer titles and grow its collection. No book is ever thrown away, donated books and weeded books alike are simply passed along through our book sales to find a new home in our community!
Can I donate books to the FOMPL for book sales?
Yes, we welcome book donations! Please reach out to us at fompl@mbcpl.org before dropping anything off at the Downton Martinsburg Library.
A few guidelines to keep in mind when donating used books:
Please donate one small to medium box of books at a time, we are unable to accommodate large quantities at once.
We are unable to pick up donations, so all books must be dropped off.
Please make sure all donated books are in decent condition.
Please do not donate books that smell moldy or have visual signs of mold.
Please do not donate books smelling of cigarette, cigar or pipe smoke.
General Library Frequently Asked Questions
General Library Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Martinsburg Public Library open?
Yes! The Friends of the Martinsburg Public Library is thrilled to share that the Martinsburg Public Library is open and welcoming our community back through its doors. Come in, explore, and rediscover everything your library has to offer!
What are the library's hours?
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays — 10 AM to 7 PM
Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays — 10 AM to 5 PM
Sundays — Closed
Why was the Martinsburg Public Library closed?
In 2024, the library's original heating and air conditioning system, over 50 years old, ceased working and could not be repaired. After work began on a new system, asbestos was discovered, requiring safe remediation according to EPA regulations. This added time and expense to the project and delayed the reopening multiple times. We are grateful for our community's patience and support throughout this process.
Are there other MBCPL branch libraries in the area?
Yes! The Martinsburg-Berkeley County Public Libraries system has several branch locations serving our community. Each branch offers its own programs, services, and hours. We encourage you to visit any of the branches and discover everything your local library system has to offer!
Hedgesville Public Library
207 North Mary Street, Hedgesville, WV 25427
North Berkeley Public Library
1255 TJ Jackson Drive, Falling Waters, WV 25419
Musselman-South Berkeley Community Library
(Located at Musselman High School)
126 Excellence Way, Inwood, WV 25428
Page updated
Report abuse