We are a dedicated 501(c)(3) volunteer organization focused on enhancing
library services, funding community events, and ensuring everyone has access
to vital resources in Crestview, Florida.
The Friends of the Crestview Library is a passionate group of volunteers, readers, and community advocates dedicated to supporting the Robert L. F. Sykes Public Library. As a non-profit organization, our mission is to champion literacy, foster a lifelong love of learning, and expand the reach of our local library system. Through public donations, community partnerships, and volunteer outreach, we help provide vital enhancements for educational programs, structural improvements, and robust catalog updates that benefit neighbors of all ages across Crestview.
Friends of the Crestview Library president Paul Harker accepting a proclamation from Crestview Mayor J. B. Whitten.
Friends of the Crestview Library purchased the Star Wars Death Star Lego Kit and donated it to the library Lego Club.
Paul Farnsworth is the President of the Friends of the Crestview Library. He became involved with the Friends in summer 2023 when the Friends of the Crestview Library became active again. Paul was elected as president in 2024 and served in that position since then.
Paul moved to Crestview in the fall of 1990 as his final assignment with the United States Air Force. He retired from the military in 1995 and began his second career with the State of Florida and Okaloosa County until 2018 at which time he fully retired. Paul, and his wife Lisa, live with their three rescued dogs. They spend a great deal of time with their grandchildren who also live nearby. Paul has always been an avid reader and advocate for the library. He has been known to ask people he meets, “May I see your library card?”. Paul reminds everyone that the library is much more than just books. He encourages participation in the many and varied programs the Robert L. F. Sykes Library has to offer.
Michael "Mic" Harker is a lifelong resident of Crestview, Florida, with a distinguished career defined by service to his country, state, and local community. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Michael transitioned his dedication to public safety into a remarkable 27-year career with the State of Florida’s Department of Corrections, ultimately achieving the respected rank of Captain before his retirement.
Michael’s commitment to service continues in his civic and volunteer life. For the past year, he has served as the Vice President of the Friends of the Crestview Library, working to support local literacy and preserve vital community resources. An avid reader himself, he is a particular fan of James Patterson's fast-paced thrillers.
In addition to his work with the library, Michael is an active volunteer with the Okaloosa County Master Gardeners, dedicating his time to local agricultural education and community beautification. When he isn't volunteering, Michael enjoys spending his time outdoors gardening, practicing at the shooting range, and relaxing at home in the community he has always called home.
Jillian Harker is a dedicated community leader and administrator with nearly 30 years of experience in business administration. Deeply committed to community development and civic engagement, she currently serves as the Secretary of the Friends of the Crestview Library, where she channels her lifelong love for reading into supporting local literacy and educational initiatives.
A resident of Crestview, Florida since 2004, Jillian has woven herself into the fabric of the local community. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, complemented by professional certifications in risk management and paralegal studies. Her extensive administrative background is paired with a passion for leadership rooted in service and personal accountability.
Beyond her administrative pursuits, Jillian is a prominent figure in the local agricultural and artisan community. An avid gardener, she serves as an Okaloosa County Master Gardener Volunteer and is the Chairman of the Crestview Garden Club. Jillian also channels her love for sustainable living and crafting into a local cottage goods business, which she operates at the area farmers market.
When she isn't volunteering or tending to her business, Jillian enjoys canning, crafting, and spending time at home with her husband and their cats. Guided by the philosophy of leading by example, she strives to leave a lasting legacy of service in everything she does.
Share your time and talents. Assist us with event planning, organizing annual book sales, sorting donated books, or serving on our organizational board.
Business sponsorships will be offered starting in the fall of 2026.
Your monetary gifts directly fund children's storytimes, educational workshops, tech upgrades, and collection expansions across the system.