The Boise Public Library Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation that was formed in 1985 to attract substantial support from contributions, directly or indirectly, from persons within and outside the community to benefit the Boise Public Library.

According to the Articles of Incorporation, the corporation is organized and shall be operated exclusively for educational and charitable purposes.. Another stated purpose is to stimulate the interest of the public, friends and supporters of the Library in the Librarys development and offering of public library services and facilities.

Foundation Board members work to encourage contributions from local corporations and individuals through gifts to the Library and by sponsoring various fund-raising events. Funds raised through the Foundation are used exclusively for the benefit of Boise Public Library and are not part of the City budget. Current Board members are as follows:

James Stamey, President	Diana Nicholson, Vice President
Jim Nelson, Secretary/Treasurer	Martie Brennan, Library Board Liaison
Jim Thompson, Library Board Liaison	Susan Grey, Board Member
Kenneth Stoltz, Board Member

The Foundations first major achievement was the raising of $850,000 through a direct donation drive that was used to convert the third floor of the present main library building into public service space and remodel the first and second floors. This remodeling provided space in which to house additional volumes added to the Librarys collection and expand some areas to allow for better service to our patrons.

The Bucks for Books campaign raised approximately $50,000 toward the purchase of library materials. Past annual fund-raisers have included Masquerade Balls and the At Home events which raised $8,000 annually for the purchase of materials and library equipment.

Fundraising efforts have been responsible for the completion of the community room at the Boise Towne Square Mall library branch. This room is used for childrens story times and other library programs, public community meetings for organizations, etc. The Foundation has also funded the installation of a local area computer network for public and staff access. Plans are underway for a permanent endowment fund to benefit Boise Public Library.

The continued dedication of the Foundation Board to Boise Public Library enables us to provide more and better service to our patrons and helps ensure that our goals of being an information and learning center are met.

Donations in any amount are gratefully accepted, and qualify as a charitable donation as well as an Idaho state tax credit. If you would like to make a financial donation to the Foundation today, just print and complete the donation form and mail it with your contribution to the address indicated on the form. For more information, please call 384-4238.

 

Last Updated: 10/02/2006