What is the Library Foundation of Los Angeles?

The Library Foundation of Los Angeles supports the Los Angeles Public Library. Created in 1992 as an entity separate from the Library, the Foundation seeks private sector support for selected capital improvements, services and programs that provide greater access to learning for the city's diverse population. The Foundation provides funding for programs, which complement, but do not supplant the City's responsibility for operating the Library. The Library Foundation of Los Angeles is a California non-profit public benefit corporation, Federal I.D. #95-4368250.

Why should I make a donation to a tax-supported institution?

The Los Angeles Public Library is a department of the City of Los Angeles, which provides funding for staff, collections, facilities, and operating expenses.
 
As the Library continues to expand its service to the community, the Library Foundation partners with the private sector to secure funds to support programs and resources not included in the city budget. Among these are: after-school reading enrichment programs, the acquisition of special materials, new technologies to provide the public with free and equal access to the latest in electronic information resources, and cultural and educational programs.

Does the Library Foundation have an endowment?

Yes, we have four endowment funds:
 
• A National Endowment for the Humanities Challenge Grant Endowment, for humanities programs and materials at the Central Library.
 
•  A Foundation Board-designated Endowment for the purpose of providing long term support for library programs and services.
 
• The Gregory Peck Literary Endowment, created in recognition of Mr. Peck's contributions to the library, to build the necessary resources to maintain literary programs in the future.
 
• The Caroline Singleton Adult Literacy Endowment, to help support future maintenance and expansion of the Library's Adult Literacy Services.

What geographic area is served by the Los Angeles Public Library?

The Los Angeles Public Library serves the largest population of any public library in the nation. With its Central Library and 71 branch libraries, the LAPL serves an immediate population of nearly 4 million people throughout the 470 square mile city and residents from surrounding communities.

Would the Library Foundation contribute funds to my library?

The Library Foundation contributes support to the programs and services of the Los Angeles Public Library, and its Central Library and 71 community branch libraries. If you would like to direct a gift to the Los Angeles Public Library branch in your neighborhood, please call the Library Foundation at 213/228-7500.

Who are the Library Associates?

Library Associates provide support to the Library Foundation through memberships ranging from $50 to $2,500 a year. Associates receive advance electronic notice of special events, a discount in the Library Store, invitations to programs at the Central Library and the Foundation Newsletter. Higher categories receive additional benefits.

Who are the Friends?

The Los Angeles Public Library has more than 70 FRIENDS groups that serve as library advocates in their community. These support groups are associated with specific branch libraries or various Central Library departments. Visit the Library's website to find out more about the different support groups.

Does the Library Foundation accept donations of books and magazines?

The Library Foundation is not able to accept donations of books and magazines. Please call your local branch library for information on this kind of donation.

Can I donate my home to the Library?

Yes, please call the Foundation office 213/228-7500.

For More Information
Los Angeles Public Library
Library Associates
Estate Planning
Gregory Peck Literary Endowment

 
Back to Top