Stephanie and Gary Starr want to get to know you. And they’re creating the perfect reason to do it.

The Starrs have joined other donors who have made a transformative commitment to the Library community with the establishment of an endowment fund designed to support groundbreaking programming and initiatives at new Main Library.

This generous endowment underscores the Starr family’s dedication to enhancing community engagement and fostering intellectual growth. By funding innovative new programs, the endowment will enable new Main Library to offer a diverse array of activities, from live debates on our most pressing community issues to adult-focused programming adapted to the evolving needs of our world.

We need the Library and its community programming now more than ever,” said Stephanie Starr. “The divisive nature of the rhetoric we are bombarded with every day is creating a threat to our individual health and the well-being of our community. The Library’s programming brings people together.”

The fund will ensure that the Library remains a vibrant public commons for learning and creativity, reflecting the Starr family’s vision of forward-thinking programming that creates much needed human connection.

“We’ve met people from all walks of life at Library programs and events who have enriched our lives by expanding our perspective and understanding.” Stephanie and Gary Starr are longtime Verse & Vino attendees and feel that “attending author talks and lectures, listening to inspiring music, watching entertaining performances, taking workshops, and volunteering with others in our community have given us a profound feeling of connection to and appreciation for what Charlotte has to offer.”

With this endowment, the Main Library is poised to become a beacon of lifelong learning and meaningful community connection in Uptown Charlotte, offering opportunities that extend beyond traditional Library services,” said Jenni Gaisbauer, executive director of the Library Foundation. “The Starr Family endowment highlights a profound commitment to enhancing our cultural and educational resources, ensuring that Main Library will be a dynamic destination and essential asset for years to come.”

The Starrs were motivated to give because of their own experiences with Library programming. “We were inspired to pledge our financial support to help ensure that the new Main Library, with its state-of-the-art facilities, will have the financial capacity to offer equally impressive community programming that will bring the Charlotte community together.”