Libraries are about much more than just books. They are cornerstones of every community they’re in, providing enrichment, engagement, and education to all generations. We believe that they are key to thriving communities.
Everyone wants to live in a thriving community. One of the most powerful ways to empower your community is to show your support with a library donation.
At their core, libraries represent an equitable society where everyone has equal access to the same resources, information, and cultural enrichment. Libraries represent civic engagement, education, connection, and literacy for all – from our youngest learners to seniors hoping to stay active, connected, and informed.
In that way, libraries are an equalizer. They provide the same level of knowledge, programming, and access to everyone in our community – no matter who they are, what they look like, or where they come from.
The library’s ability to change lives and make communities better is why at the Library Foundation SD we work tirelessly to support and advocate for the San Diego Public Library every day. But, we can’t do this work alone. That’s why we are eternally grateful for all of the support that we’ve received from donors.
The Excel Card helps San Diego students like Eddie Garcia access library materials and services critical to their educational success.
Some of the initiatives and programs that philanthropy has supported at the San Diego Public Library have very real impacts on our community. For example:
- Books Unbanned: The Books Unbanned initiative, which is 100% philanthropically supported, provides digital versions of frequently challenged books to youth across the U.S., increasing access to titles that may help marginalized young people feel less alone in the world and helping to defend intellectual freedom on a national level.
- Fresh Start: We worked with the San Diego Public Library to launch the Fresh Start program, which increases library access for our community members with one-time fine forgiveness for young library patrons who had suspended accounts.
- EXCEL: With Library Foundation SD help, the San Diego Public Library and the San Diego Unified School District forged a partnership that allows students instant access to the materials and services they need to thrive academically.
- Adult High School Diploma: A program, launched in 2014, that allows adult learners in San Diego to earn a high school diploma. Nearly all participants receive a Library Foundation SD scholarship so they can participate at no cost.
- IDEA Labs: Openly accessible spaces where library patrons can learn to make creative projects and entrepreneurs can access resources to launch a new business. IDEA Labs also help San Diegans digitize their precious memories.
- And much more: Every year, we work with the San Diego Public Library on initiatives ranging from San Diego Pride participation to special programming specifically for Comic-Con, and from new physical library branches to podcasts aimed at bringing awareness to important library issues.
Everyone wants to live in a thriving community. One of the most powerful ways to empower your community is to show your support with a library donation.
These are examples of how philanthropy has allowed the San Diego Public Library to empower, enrich, and educate our communities. And, they are a clear example of how your support makes a real impact in San Diego.
The library is a place where we gather, foster connections, empower ourselves with knowledge, and find enriching cultural experiences. From free access to technology to live musical performances, there’s no place like your local public library. And, perhaps most importantly, it’s a place where we all truly can belong as we are.
We think libraries’ role in our communities should be celebrated, protected, and preserved. More than that, we truly believe our libraries are institutions we should expand and embolden.
Our libraries need our support now more than ever. And, a gift to Library Foundation SD is a clear declaration that you believe a better San Diego – one in which all people can thrive – is possible. It’s one of the most powerful messages you can send to your community.
This season, we hope that you think so, too.
