Impact of Donor Support

The Seattle Public Library is an essential service that many of our neighbors rely on to learn and grow. It cultivates informed citizens, opens windows of opportunity, and helps our communities stay connected. It builds excitement for reading and discovery.

The Seattle Public Library Foundation supports more than 45 equity-focused programs designed to eliminate cost barriers, increase representation among historically underserved communities, and expand opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and economic positions.

The Foundation provides more than $5 million every year in support for library collections and free public programs, thanks to the contributions of around 8,000 donors. All gifts enhance, and do not replace, publicly funded services.

Read The Seattle Public Library’s 2023 Stories of Impact here to learn more about patron usage and experiences, including annual statistics at a glance.

We support the service priorities identified by library staff, partners, and patrons:

Library Collections and Materials

Donor support provides more than 100,000 new books and materials each year, adding 1 in 3 new items at the library. This helps expand the depth and breadth of the collection, respond to community needs and interests, and support initiatives like Books Unbanned.

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Early Literacy and Lifelong Education

From getting every child ready to read, to K-12 student success, to continued adult learning, we support education programs that serve all ages such as Raising A Reader, Global Reading Challenge, Homework Help, Story Time, Adult Tutoring, Summer of Learning, and more.

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Enrichment and Civic Engagement

Cultural events and programs at the library enrich our community with inspiration, entertainment, and social connections, including the Authors Series, Seattle Reads, Literary Community Curator, and more arts and civic engagement programming

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Economic and Workforce Development

Libraries strengthen our economy by helping people develop job skills, find employment, and provide information for entrepreneurs and small businesses, through programs such as Your Next Job, Job & Life Skills classes, Library to Business, and ESL and Citizenship classes.

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Safe and Welcoming Spaces for All

Evolving community needs require updates to facilities that extend beyond maintenance. The Foundation supports reimagining projects designed to adapt and energize library spaces to help keep up with changing services, programs, and community needs.

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