About the Foundation
MISSION
The Lewis & Clark Library Foundation, a 501(c)(3) corporation, works to enhance the quality of public library services to our community by encouraging and generating philanthropic gifts and bequests, with accountability to donors and the public.
VISION
Our vision is that each member of our community will have superior access to the highest quality library and information services now and into the future.
READ OUR 2016 STRATEGIC PLAN (below)
Visit the News & Events page to read our annual reports and newsletters.
Our History
Making our great library better since 1978!
The Lewis & Clark Library Foundation was founded in 1978 to support the Lewis & Clark Library system. Significant gifts from the estates of Bernice Boone, Merlyn Rector, Ronald Schmid, and the Dorothy Thayer Trust provided the initial funds for establishment of a permanent endowment that has grown to nearly $801,906 as of November 30, 2019.
In 2005, the Library Foundation helped raise funds for the Ambrose Reading Room on the second floor and in 2012 contributed to the cost of the Library's first Bookmobile.
Commitment
Accountability to our Donors
The Lewis & Clark Library Foundation is committed to:
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Managing our finances competently;
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Informing the community of our activities;
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Maintaining financial accountability; while also
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Respecting the privacy rights and wishes of our donors; and
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Respecting the authority of the Lewis & Clark Library Board of Trustees to set library policy and the responsibility of the library director and staff to operate the Library.
Legacy Giving
You can make a difference
The Foundation and the Library work together in a collaborative partnership to determine where private funds can be invested to support and improve a strong library system.
The Foundation’s support for the Library is made possible by contributions, large and small, from individuals, businesses, and organizations.
Read more about ways to give to the Library Foundation, how to honor someone with a tribute gift, and special events for sustaining donors.
Who We Are
2020 Board of Directors, Officers, and Staff
Hover over image to read about it!
Anne Pichette - President
Terry Cohea - Vice-President
John Finn - Secretary
Amy Berry - Treasurer
Art Butler
Nikki DesRosier
Merry Fahrman
Bethany Flint
Kathy Hamill
Babs Leaphart
Pad McCracken
Lorna Milne
Virginia Reeves
Brooks Robertson
Sarah Sullivan
Opal Winebrenner
Patti Borneman, Executive Assistant
2016 Library Foundation Strategic Plan
1. MANAGE ASSETS
Ensure prudent acquisition, management, and use of funds in a transparent process that demonstrates accountability to our stakeholders.
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Revise gift policy.
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Schedule visits from investor counselors.
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Prepare budget by June 1 each year. Participate in audit.
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Prepare financial report.
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Make all financial disclosures, reports and audits available to the public.
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Develop policy re: non-library requests for support.
2. RAISE FUNDS
Maintain and grow sustainable diversified funding.
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Develop and implement a fundraising plan.
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Increase the number of donors and cultivate stronger relationships with existing donors.
3. PLANNED GIVING
Ensure long-term growth of the Foundation by encouraging donors to make the Foundation a beneficiary of their estate.
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Increase emphasis on planned giving opportunities.
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Provide simple tools to implement planned giving.
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Develop and implement a planned giving strategy.
4. BOARD EXPERIENCE
Develop a diverse and effective board that represents the Lewis & Clark Library communities.
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Provide for an engaging, congenial, and rewarding board experience.
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Demonstrate appreciation and support for library staff.
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Expand board member development by providing periodic educational opportunities.
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Develop and implement board policy as needed.
5. COMMUNICATION
Convey and celebrate the impact of donors’ gifts on programs and services of the library.
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Increase online presence including Facebook.
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Communicate 4 x year with donor base, bi-monthly email.
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Develop and implement a communication plan.
