The Friends of the Merril Collection is an organization through which members of the science fiction community can support The Merril Collection of Science Fiction, Speculation and Fantasy.

The Friends was originally a citizen advisory group to the Toronto Public Library Board. It has its own constitution and bylaws. The stated objectives of the organization, according to its constitution are:

• To encourage interest in The Merril Collection and the interests of the library.
• To increase awareness of works of the fantastic imagination and of Canadian contribution to this field.
• To advise the Toronto Public Library Board on policy matters concerning the collection in consultation with the Library's staff.
• To act as a resource for The Merril Collection and other public and private collections in Canada and elsewhere in consultation with the staff of the Toronto Public Libary Board.

The Friends of the Merril Collection is not a fan organization; it is a group of members with a common interest: to promote the collection and to make it the best public collection of speculative fiction in the world. Currently our two main means of accomplishing that task are by publishing the newsletter SOL Rising, and by sponsoring appearances at the Library by prominent people in science fiction, fantasy and related fields. Three appearances or other programming are scheduled quarterly with the fourth quarter being devoted to the annual membership meeting and informal get-together. Additional events are also scheduled from time to time.