Hello, friends,
Two weeks ago, deputy director Teleia White and I had the opportunity to attend the International Public Library Fundraising Conference in San Diego. We spent two and a half days with our peers, over 250 fundraising professionals who support libraries of all sizes across the country.
We were also joined by three of our amazing board leaders Helen Hope Kimbrough, Selena Giovannelli, and Jennifer Bennett as we explored the challenges and opportunities ahead for public libraries. Teleia and I would like to personally thank them for their time and dedication to our public library system.

Some key themes emerged during the conference, including:
Power grows where trust remains. Libraries continue to be among the most trusted institutions, and we’re committed to honoring and growing that trust every day.
Connections matter. Having a network of peers to lean on and learn from is critical, especially when navigating new and ongoing challenges. The Library continues to play an integral role in bringing people together.
Public-private partnerships are essential. Especially in today’s funding climate, we must work together to make progress possible — a strong civic effort combined with the power of our individual and corporate supporters is key.
Teleia and I came home rejuvenated and more committed than ever to the work and impact of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation. And we came home full of gratitude for you, our supporters. You make it all possible.
As we close out our fiscal year, we also close a chapter with two incredible board leaders. Please join me in thanking Debra Sharp and Elizabeth Kiser for their thoughtful leadership and steadfast support over the past three years. We are so grateful.
And we are thrilled to welcome Mark Caldwell, Connie Carlson, Susie Orman Schnall, and Aarti Sura to our talented and dedicated board. We look forward to building a great foundation for our Library with you.
With gratitude,

Jenni Gaisbauer, CFRE
Executive Director
P.S. We hope to see you this Saturday at 1 p.m. at ImaginOn for our Summer Reading Kick-off celebration with Hornets forward Grant Williams, the Hornets Book Bus, Hugo, and fun activities for the whole family. Let’s keep our community reading — and buzzing — this summer.

What’s the frequency?
Set your donation frequency to monthly. Consider becoming a monthly donor with a gift of $25 or more and receive our exclusive Library swag bag.
As one of our new recurring donors put it… “Thank you for the delightful swag bag. I was not expecting so many things. I behaved like a child going through it!”

Nancy Drew and the Queen City: Why I Believe in the Power of Libraries
It’s no mystery why Jess Schauble is excited to build signature programming at new Main Library. Discover how she’s preparing to energize the new flagship Library in this new position generously funded by the Gambrell Foundation.

“They allow you to exercise your mind.”
The Library is bridging the gap in the digital divide with DigiLit, one of CML’s largest initiatives. Experience the impact of this life-changing digital literacy programming in this inspiring video.
DONOR TESTIMONAL
“We live within walking distance of the Plaza Midwood branch and see every day the impact it has for young readers, seniors, the unhoused, and us. It is an essential third place that serves to strengthen community.
“Books are our greatest luxury. We value other people’s perspectives and experiences. We delight in a good story well-told. We believe everyone should have access to a complete library that feeds their curiosity and imagination. In these times of divisiveness and censorship, libraries are even more essential. Our gift is in support of those beliefs.”