The Foundation's Mission

The Library of Michigan Foundation raises funds to support special programs, services and collections of the Library of Michigan.

Why the Foundation Exists

Established in 1985, the Library of Michigan Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit, public charity governed by an independent Board of Directors. The Foundation exists to provide opportunities for charitable giving to benefit the Library and to provide funding for Library programs and projects otherwise not provided through state or federal funding.

What the Foundation Has Accomplished

In its 23-year history, the Foundation has:

• Received nearly $6 million in private donations, including over $1.1 million in corporate support
  
• Received gifts for the construction of the Rare Book Room totaling over $850,000
  
• Contributed $553,000 to support adult and youth literacy across the state
  
• Contributed over $200,000 since 2005 to support a literary program that highlights Michigan books and Michigan authors
  
• Contributed nearly $2.3 million to develop the Library's genealogical collection
  
• Contributed nearly $100,000 to the Service for the Blind & Physically Handicapped program
  
• Supported special Library of Michigan programs, such as the Mahoney Workshops for Youth Librarians, Rural Libraries Conference and the State Librarian's Excellence Award.

How We Meet the Foundation's Mission

The Library of Michigan Foundation meets its mission by providing support for priority programs and projects of the Library. Programs supported by the Foundation:

• Abrams Historical Genealogy Collection:   to preserve family history
• Rare Book Collection: to protect Michigan's printed history
• Special library services for the blind and physically handicapped
• Michigan Notable Books Program: to promote Michigan's literary and cultural heritage
• Michigan Reads!: to promote emergent literacy for children ages 0-5
• Michigan eLibrary (MeL.org): to open a door to virtual learning

Updated 03/24/2009