Donors Make The Difference

I give because libraries are the cornerstone of a strong, healthy community. They provide free access to information, spark ideas, and create a space where everyone—regardless of background—can connect, learn, and thrive. What started with trips to the bookmobile with my mom has become something I now share with my daughters.

I love the Library because it truly is a place for everyone. It’s so much more than books! It’s a place where people of every age and background can learn, connect, and explore. As a Foundation board member and donor to the Library, I am proud to support an organization that has such a meaningful impact on our community. The Library provides resources and opportunities that might not otherwise be available to everyone, and I believe that kind of access is incredibly important. Topeka is a stronger community because we have a strong public library, and I am grateful to play a small part in supporting its future.

Libraries are pure magic. They are conduits for connection, yes, but also for escape—to other places, eras, people, possibilities. And all of that, at our very fingertips, for free. Libraries foster our curiosity, creativity, community, ingenuity, and innovative thought. Our library is an open door for all, a curator of stories both real and imagined, a beacon of reason and knowledge in a world of chaos and change. It is a place where our shared humanity shines. That is the true, long-standing wonder of the library in general, and of our own library, too.

The Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it’s a warm and welcoming community space! Providing financial support helps ensure we have the resources, programs, and social events that are free for everyone to enjoy. Generosity makes a big difference in keeping the Library accessible and supportive for all.

I have two favorite parts of the Library.

I absolutely love the Chandler Booktique – it’s the perfect spot to find unique gifts. And then, there’s the Millennium Cafe, where you can savor some delicious food while catching up with friends. It’s such a lovely place to hang out!

Our library is a positive force in our community and truly one of the things we can be proudest of in Shawnee County. From traditional books and programs to community-wide reading challenges and innovative resources like 3D printing, the opportunities our library provides are endless. It is a world-class treasure, and it could not be what it is without the support of the Library Foundation. We know that when we give to the library, great things will follow—and that our gift will help make an even greater impact in our community.

I love the Library because it’s operated by people who care. You don’t have to take my word for it either. Just talk with a staff member. You’ll see what I mean. Second, there’s nothing this Library can’t help with. Come take a tour. The resources available here may surprise you!

I donate to the Library because, honestly, it feels good to give back to something that’s given me so much. I’ve spent a lot of time in that building during my life. In so doing, I’ve had a lot of fun, made new friends, and even learned a thing or two. If my donation means someone in the next generation can have a similar experience? I’m all for it!

The ability to read and comprehend is foundational for personal development, achievement, and success.  Having a fabulous resource such as the public library opens the door of opportunity to all to acquire that success.  My wife Jan and I have been regular donors to The Library Foundation in support of the public library and intend to remain donors in the future.  A strong public library, offering a variety of reading, research, historical, genealogical, financial, technological, and educational resources to everyone who walks in the door (or accesses on-line), is a Pillar on which Topeka and Shawnee County are built.  One cannot over-estimate the value of our public library.  It is fantastic and available to all.

I very vividly remember when I was a young girl going to the bookmobile in the summer with my sisters and getting books to read as well as the summer challenges that the library developed for us. I always participated in them. And now, as an adult, I understand the incredible opportunities the library affords all our community’s children throughout the year. The library is such a remarkable resource for our community. That is why I give.