The library's foundation was founded in 1977 by a group of passionate community members to financially support the mission of Kent Free Library.
The foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, charitable organization formed solely to benefit Kent Free Library. Recent projects include new carpet for the Children's Department, renovation of the cafe space, purchase of 3D printers, funding the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and supporting the Summer and Winter Reading programs.
Over the years, the Foundation has served as a mechanism to stabilize library funding, acquire property to benefit Kent Free Library, and assist in funding capital projects. In addition, the Foundation routinely supports programs for the Youth and Adult Services departments, including the Summer and Winter Reading Programs. Funding for refreshments, program snacks, honorariums for speakers, performer fees, and prizes for library events are generously supplemented by the Foundation.
Board Members
The Library Foundation is comprised of a diverse group of community leaders who lead its Board of Directors. The Library Director also serves on the board.
Current Board:
Iris Meltzer, President
Jim Bear, Treasurer
Stacey Richardson, Secretary
Julie Kenworthy
Asad Khan
John Ryan
The Foundation works closely with the library’s Board of Trustees to enhance and maintain library services to the community.
Support the Foundation
The Foundation accepts and receives memorial donations and cash gifts, holds and maintains real and personal property, and offers planned giving opportunities.
Gifts to Kent Free Library Foundation are an excellent way to ensure the continuing excellence of library services for the residents of Kent. The library’s tradition of excellence in programming, collections, and services is a tribute to the generosity and support of the community. All gifts are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law. The Foundation accepts contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations. Examples of planned giving opportunities include:
- Including the Library Foundation in your will
- Naming the Library Foundation as a beneficiary of all or part of your life insurance or retirement plan
- Making a planned gift to honor a loved one
- Making a deferred gift such as a charitable trust or gift annuity
- Including the Library Foundation in your estate plan
For more information about giving opportunities please contact Kent Free Library Foundation at 330.676.0436 or by emailing Library Director, Stacey Richardson, at stacey.richardson@kentfreelibrary.org.