Board members back exploring a 'Friends of the Library' nonprofit to accept donations

Board members discussed creating a formal Friends of the Library nonprofit or foundation to allow private donations to support library programs. The board noted the library currently holds a donor fund — used for book‑sale revenues and children's programming — and that a Friends group could broaden fundraising, offer tax advantages and support future campaigns.

Library Director Rachel Buell told the board the library already holds a donor fund that has been used for children's and teen programs; she estimated the balance at roughly $30,000 and said staff are cautious about how those funds are spent. Board members and staff discussed the difference between a city‑held donor fund and an independent nonprofit friends organization, noting a separate Friends entity would have its own board and could undertake fundraising or ballot advocacy separate from city government.

The board agreed to research next steps, including required paperwork, governance structure, fiscal administration, potential conflicts of interest and an MOU with the city. Alex (board member, Impact Development Fund) volunteered to join an initial research effort; staff offered to help compile model documents and guidance from national library resources such as the American Library Association.

Board members emphasized the need to clarify roles — who would administer funds, whether staff or board members could sit on a Friends board, and how the city and friends group would coordinate. The discussion produced no formal vote; the outcome was direction to gather documentation and return to the board with a recommended plan of action.