Area of Greatest Need Fund
The ongoing cost increases associated with information technology, educational programming and library materials erode the ability of most public libraries to maintain basic service levels. Fundraising is fast becoming an attractive option to earn extra funds to fill the gap. However, for many public libraries, fundraising remains a risky venture.
Why?
Fundraising requires additional
- skills and training,
- staff time and resources,
- project research and planning,
- publicity and media coordination,
- volunteer recruitment, training and scheduling,
- sustained campaign commitment, and
- analysis to determine the net resultant profit.
To overcome this uncertainty and hesitation, the SCLS Foundation provides technical fundraising support through a variety of SCLS resources that help all member libraries secure private funds.
Examples of programs that may be supported through this fund include:
- Fundraising Consultant Pool—A directory of qualified consultants who can assist with specific needs such as capital campaigns, feasibility studies, planned giving options, etc. These consultant services will be available on a cost-recovery basis.
- Fundraising Promotional Materials—Editorial and graphic design assistance in developing fundraising flyers, brochures and public service announcements that can be customized for the library and community.
- Fundraising-Specific Workshops—A variety of fundraising training applications offered to the community and volunteers, including the education, cultivation and solicitation of potential donors.
- Grant Funding Availability Clearinghouse—Provide information regarding local, state, national and global grant funding sources available to SCLS member libraries.
- Non-Cash Donations—Assistance with the disposition and sale of donor gifts of sufficient value (personal property, real estate, securities, etc.) through auctions, estate sales and other means.
- Professional Collection Development Fundraising Materials—Acquisitions of print and media fundraising materials for use in local community library fundraising campaigns.
If you and your family would like to make a major gift to support or endow an Area of Greatest Need Fund program, please contact Phyllis Davis, South Central Library System Director, 608 246-7975.
Back to Public Library Enhancement Funds.