Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Foundation established?
The library's Board of Trustees established the Foundation in 1993 for several reasons. First, in the face of declining county and state support, private fund raising was deemed essential to sustain the health and vitality of the library. Second, bequests stemming from the days of the Cornell Free Library were in need of better financial management. Third, a challenge grant from an anonymous donor required the money to be given to a 501 (c) (3) organization.
Why do we need the Tompkins County Public Library Foundation?
Foundations in support of public entities (libraries, public schools, etc.) are a common phenomenon throughout the country. In New York and elsewhere, tax-supported libraries must look to the private sector to assist them in meeting the changing needs and constituencies they serve. Private resources can play an important role in providing new and important opportunities for accessing information. The Tompkins County Public Library Foundation has traditionally been responsible for generating support for a superior county public library by raising funds for programs and services beyond what is provided for in the county budget and by enlisting the involvement of a broad spectrum of the community. The Tompkins County Public Library and Tompkins County Public Library Foundation work hand in hand to bring new learning and cultural experiences, emerging technology and community services to children and adults in Tompkins County.
What about the Friends of the Library? How does that organization fit in?
Both the Friends of the Library and the Foundation support the mission of the library through fundraising initiatives. The Friends direct an annual gift to the library based on the proceeds of their twice-annual booksales, in addition to providing gifts and grants to other libraries, librarians and book-related causes and projects in the Finger Lakes Library System. The Foundation seeks private support through personal requests, grants, corporate gifts, endowment gifts and the annual appeal, then allocates funds to the library.
Who is involved in directing the Foundation?
It is managed and directed by a board of directors, a group of private citizens representing business, cultural, and civic leadership in the communities. The Board of Directors employs a full-time Executive Director and part-time Administrative Assistant to oversee the daily operations of the Foundation.
What types of things does the Foundation fund?
- General Library Enhancement
- Cultural and Educational Public Programs for Youth, Families and
- Adults
- Technology & Equipment
- Collection Enhancement
- Special Projects
- Endowment
Who decides what projects and programs the Foundation will support?
Based on the needs identified by the Library Director and Library Board of Trustees, the Foundation Board makes general decisions regarding the projects and programs for which we will seek funding. However, donors to the Foundation may direct their contributions to specific areas. In addition, the Library Board has the final legal say in accepting or rejecting any gift from the Foundation.
Are there any assurances that the Foundation will use its funds as intended and will not lose funds through risky investments?
Yes. The Foundation is a non-profit corporation chartered by the State of New York and subject to guidelines covering fund raising activities. This corporation is granted exemption under section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue code and subject to further reporting requirements and rules covering such things as annual distributions, jeopardy investments, conflicts of interest, restricted funds, etc.
