Mission: To champion the Vista Library by providing resources and support that enhance its role as a hub for education, creativity, and community engagement.

ENCORE Bookstore

The ENCORE Bookstore, located at the entrance of the Vista Library, is packed with books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, games, and jigsaw puzzles at a fraction of their original cost. Special sales events include a members-only 50% off sale every second Friday and a public 50% off sale on the last Friday and Saturday of each month for even more bargains.  All sales go to funding Vista Library programs, collections, and building improvements.

The ENCORE Bookstore is run entirely by FOVL volunteers. We are always looking for more volunteers to take a shift at the store. Read more about the ENCORE Bookstore at the Vista Library.

“I like giving our community access to books at an affordable price.” – Nanci O.

Our Impact

FOVL enriches the Vista Library in three ways:

1. Enhanced adult and youth programming. FOVL brings dozens of special programs to the Vista Library which are open and free to all community members.  Programs designed for adults include the monthly concert featuring live music from local artists, a popular ceramics class, black ink painting, Monday Funday which provides craft time for developmentally disabled folks, and Writers’ Workshops, to name a few. Youth programs include the weekly Teen Film Afternoon, Baby Sign Storytime, Afterschool Craft, and entertainers such as comedic jugglers, clowns, and magician.
2. Building improvements. The Library Friends has assisted the Vista Library when it needs new items such as computers, furniture, and carpet. A few examples of the improvements it has funded in recent years include pint-sized tables and chairs for the children’s area and new carpet in the Community Room.
3. Additional Collections. The Library Friends has contributed toward enhancing special collections to provide library patrons with additional in-demand materials. Magazine subscriptions, digital additions, and the Hot Right Now book selections are just a few examples.

Read more about how the FOVL funds are used by the Vista Library.

“The free programs at the Vista Library brought to you by the Friends are a best-kept secret in Vista: free concerts, children’s activities, arts classes, movies for teens, and so much more!” – Sandi L.

Membership

FOVL is currently accepting new members! Join now at the regular annual fee and your membership won’t expire until December 31, 2026!

Your membership makes a big difference to our library and our community.  You will be helping to fund more special programs, add new library materials, purchase community room assets, and fulfill special requests made by the librarian and staff.

Membership dues range from $10 per year for students up to $200 for an individual life membership. You can join online or visit the Bookstore to receive a membership application.

Read more about membership options.

“I love helping kids find a book they like.” – Cynthia, bookstore volunteer

Donations and the Library Wall Tree

The Library Wall Tree celebrates our large donors and is a great way to make a substantial donation to support the Vista Library. Each donor receives an engraved leaf that is added to the tree.  The tree is located just inside the entrance to the library.  Read more about donor levels.

The Friends of the Vista Library, Inc. accepts donations in any amount.  Visit our Donation page to see the ways you can contribute to Friends of the Vista Library.

“The biggest benefit of being a Friends member is I know I am supporting the wonderful Vista Library.” – Gail

Volunteers

Volunteers enjoy the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon in April 2025

We are frequently looking for volunteers to take shifts at the bookstore, scan books for Operation Book Support, and more. To start the volunteer process, contact any library team member. All volunteers must go through the San Diego County approval process.

Read more about volunteering through FOVL.