The New Orleans Public Library Foundation
I think the health of our
civilization; the depth of
our awareness about the underpinnings of our culture and our concern
for the future can all be tested by how well we support our libraries.
I think the health of our civilization; the depth of our awareness about the underpinnings of our culture and our concern for the future can all be tested by how well we support our libraries.
-Carl Sagan
Why we need you!
The support we receive from generous community members like you supplement local government funding and helps to increase the number and variety of services available to the New Orleans community through out the Public Library system. Municipal funds received are limited and support only basic functions of the Library system.
Your donation will make an immediate and long-term impact on the Libraries and our community!
Your support of the New Orleans Public Library Foundation enables us to grow and succeed through continued funding for the library's collections, technology, programs, and services.
You are an important part of the growth and success of our system. Together we are "Speaking Volumes" into the future!
Who we are
The New Orleans Public Library Foundation is the fiscal and fundraising arm of the New Orleans Public Library. We are a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation.
Our Mission...
Is to strengthen the library system by mobilizing resources to promote excellent facilities, innovative services, and extensive use of these educational, civic and cultural resources.
Our Vision...
We envision for New Orleans a vibrant public library system featuring excellent facilities and offering quality services, programs and technologies that support a culture of lifelong learning, promote a strong democracy, and advance a creative economy for all throughout the City.
Our History...
The New Orleans Public Library Foundation was founded in 1990 to support the Library by managing gifts made by private individuals, companies, and foundations. It is an educational, charitable non-profit organization under IRS Section 501c3. It is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of the members of the NOPL Board of Directors, several community leaders, and the Library Director ex officio.
Until Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the New Orleans Public Library Foundation quietly and effectively managed gifts and bequests made in support of the Library. Income from the investment of gifts was used primarily to support book acquisitions.
After Katrina, Trustees of the Foundation faced up to the challenge of rebuilding ruined libraries. The New Orleans Public Library Foundation is dedicated to increasing public awareness and support of the City's public libraries. The long-term goal is not merely a “return to normal,” but a model urban library system for New Orleans’ 21st century.