How to Raise Funds for Your Library

Extra money means more books for your library! However, in tough economic times, it is hard to get budget increases. There are many fun fundraisers that relate directly to libraries. In addition to raising funds, these ideas also promote reading!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time
• Organization
• Permission from your principal, director, etc.

1. Host a Book Fair
   
   Several companies and book stores offer book fairs that bring books to your location, allowing you to sell them and keep part of the profits. One of the biggest book fair suppliers is Scholastic. They market a huge variety of books to the school-age crowd and can supply you a lot of support, promotional ideas, and marketing tools. They are also very generous with your profit percentage, allowing to keep a much larger percentage if you take your profit in books instead of cash.
   
   If you are having a book fair for older teens and adults, you will want to check with a book store to see if they are able to assist you with a fair. Barnes and Noble and Borders are two stores who have this type of program.

2. Have a Book Dedication Program
   
   An easy way to earn funds, with minimal effort, is through a book dedication program, allowing people to “adopt” a book by paying money to have a nameplate placed inside. The cost to adopt the book may be the true cost of the book or a set fee. We find that charging $10-15 is a good way to draw in a lot of donations.
   
   School libraries often draw in more funds by rewarding students who ‘adopt-a-book’ by giving them a small treat in return or by inviting them to a party. My library hosts a birthday party at the end of the year, which really gets the kids excited…and they are more likely to ask their parents to adopt a book.
   
   Other libraries garner more donations by combining the program with other special events, such as Grandparent’s Day or graduation.

3. What Do You Do With Weeded Books? Sell Them!!
   
   Used book sales are a wonderful way to raise funds with items you might otherwise throw away. Some libraries set up a small shelf and sell books throughout the year. Other libraries pack up books all year long and then host a large book sale. At my school library, I have an annual “twenty-five-cent sale,” and the kids love it! Don’t forget, patrons may be interested in buying anything you are clearing out, including those really old filmstrips and used magazines.

Tips & Warnings

• Promote your fundraiser!!
• Use multiple types of fundraisers throughout the year.
• Be sure to check with your library director or school principal and get authorization for any type of fundraiser, as there may be certain guidelines you are required to follow.

[axleskat]

on 10/15/2009 Our small community will love these suggestions! thanks!

[jamiekucharski]

on 7/23/2009 These are ALL great library fundraisers. Such a good cause, too. :) 5*