Grants to the Library

The Seattle Public Library Foundation contributes more than $4.5 million in grants and in-kind gifts every year to support Library collections and free public programs identified by The Seattle Public Library staff. Grants contribute to the following Library service priorities:

COLLECTIONS

Foundation funding allows the Library to expand the depth and breadth of its collection, as well as act more responsively to community needs, interests, and demands.

Examples of collections support include: general collections, children’s collections, eBooks collections, the Seattle Room Special Collections, African-American collections, and the biography, literature, and classics collection.

YOUTH AND FAMILY LEARNING

Youth and Family Learning programs support children and families in academic success, career readiness, and life.

Examples of Youth and Family Learning support include: Summer of Learning, Raising A Reader, Global Reading Challenge, World Language Story Time, Fresh Start, Homework Help, College Readiness, and more.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Library’s Community Engagement programs partner with leaders, organizations, and individuals to reflect and celebrate the diverse and creative spirit of our city and respond to patron interests and community needs. Programs prioritize equity and inclusivity.

Examples of Community Engagement support include: Mobile Services, Seattle Reads, Author’s Series, Library Equal Access Program, Artist Residences, Legendary Children, Bullitt History Lecture, Museum Pass, Seattle Writes, and more.

TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS AND ACCESS TO LIBRARY SERVICES

The Technology and Access service priority is designed to make the Library a primary point of access to information, lifelong learning, economic development, and creative expression through the innovative use of technology and digital resources.

Examples of Technology and Access support include: Digital Media Learning, Older Adult Programming, Job and Life Skills, and Adult Literacy, ESL, and Citizenship Classes.

SEATTLE CULTURE AND HISTORY

The Seattle Culture and History program connects our community with our diverse local culture and history through compelling collections, expert assistance, innovative partnerships, and engaging programs.

Seattle Culture and History support includes preservation and conservation of collections, as well as operations and supplies for Special Collections.

REIMAGINED SPACES

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.

Recently, the Foundation supported the reimagining of the Lake City and South Park Branches, providing new furniture, shelving, power outlets, and creating a more adaptable spaces for branch programs and events.