May 21, 2019 The Library Foundation & the Friends of the Library
Who are the Friends of the Library?
The Friends of the Library is a 40-year-old organization of dedicated volunteers who have raised over $300,000 for the Library through many events such as the Secret Snowflake Shop and Book, Bake and Craft Sales, which are held three times a year. Funds raised by the Friends are donated in the form of grants for supplies, activities and in-kind gifts, as well as significant support over the years for the Library’s Summer and Winter Reading Programs. Grants from the Friends to Library programs are dispersed within a year or two – a nearly immediate impact for necessary needs.
What is the Library Foundation?
The Foundation was created in 1998 from the gifts of the Hoffman, Hussey and Mayfield families and stewarded in an endowment-like fund. After quietly funding major grants such as the Summer Reading Program and installation of Wi-Fi in the Library, the Foundation is writing a new chapter. Major gifts, bequests and legacy gifts, corporate sponsorships and naming rights are avenues the Foundation is pursuing. Contributions to the Library Foundation are a lasting legacy, as donations go into a managed fund and grants are made from an annual disbursement. However, designated gifts to the Foundation will be used as the donor chooses upon approval of the Library Board.
The similarity between the Friends and the Foundation? Both organizations exist to support the Library with funding beyond tax dollars and to share the time, talent and treasures of those dedicated to lifelong learning.