As the year winds to a close, we’re proud to recognize the accomplishments of two of our most relentless allies — the Friends of the Library and the Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries.
In the last year, the Friends of the Library’s fundraising and support allowed us to expand popular programs and pilot new ideas. Additionally, the Foundation celebrated its inaugural year after bringing together a board of directors and establishing a vision for a bright future for our libraries.
Read below to learn more about both organizations' accomplishments in the past year and how you can support them in the New Year!
Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries
In 2018, the Foundation was established to raise funds for items the library system could not otherwise afford through its annual operating budget. In its inaugural year, the Foundation brought together a passionate board of directors to share their expertise and collaborative energy to help the Foundation carry out its mission.
As the Foundation grows, it will fund pivotal areas in youth and family services, community engagement, and lifelong learning. Increased support in these areas will allow our library system to continue providing innovative and equitable programming.
Want to get involved? Join the Foundation’s newsletter list to learn more or visit investinsmcl.org.
Friends of the Library
We’re fortunate to have the support of our Friends of the Library organizations, who advocate and provide direct support for our community libraries.
Our ten Friends of the Library groups provided a total of $255,465 to support local library programs and services in 2018-2019. Programs included musical concerts, youth afterschool programs, special events, and family activities.
Friends are volunteers who value their local community libraries. Most friends’ groups raise funds to support numerous projects, including local programming, outreach events, capital projects and much more.
Learn more about how you can support your friends through volunteering or donating to their book sales and community events at www.smcl.org/Friends-of-the-library.
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