Friends of Lovejoy Library

The John C. Abbott Society is the major gift annual giving society of the Friends of Lovejoy Library at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.  The Society is named in honor of John C. Abbott, Lovejoy Library's first director.  Lovejoy Library opened in September 1965 and consisted of 50,000 volumes. During his 21 years as Director, John Abbott expanded the library's collections to more than 700,000 books, 100,000 maps, 15,000 recordings, 400,000 government documents, and 400,000 microform items.  In 1965 he also founded the Friends of Lovejoy Library, the volunteer fund raising organization of the Library.  

Membership: The John C. Abbott Society is open to individuals who have contributed $500 or more annually to the Friends of Lovejoy Library.  Donations may be made in one annual payment or in pledge payments throughout the fiscal year.  Donors may designate their contribution to one of the Friends existing endowments or library collections.  Once a donor's annual giving level reaches $500, they automatically become a member of the John C. Abbott Society.  A special recognition reception for members is held in the fall of the year to show the library's appreciation for donor support.