Libraries seeking funding can explore numerous grants, corporate sponsorships, and innovative fundraising ideas. This complete guide offers proven strategies from experienced professionals.
Start a fundraiserUnlock funding for your nonprofit with grants designed for Libraries. Explore government, foundation, and corporate grants to expand your impact.
Native American Library Services: Basic Grants
Institute of Museum and Library Services
$6,000 - $10,000
Government
Supports Native American Tribes in improving library services. Funds can be used for library materials, programming, staff training, and other library-related activities.
Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries
American Library Association
Up to $4,000
Private
Provides funds and resources for graphic novel collection development and programming in libraries. Aims to promote graphic novels and their use in libraries.
LSTA Community Impact Grants
California State Library
Up to $75,000
Government
Supports California libraries in responding to local needs and aligning services with community aspirations. Focuses on equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
Partner with businesses that share your mission! Corporate sponsorships can provide funding, in-kind donations, and visibility to help your nonprofit expand and sustain Libraries efforts.
2.9% + $0.30 per donation
2.9% payment processing fee per order
2.4% + $0.30 per transaction for Visa/MC/Disc; 3.95% + $0.30 for AmEx; 1.3% + $0.30 for ACH
Innovative fundraising fuels your mission. From peer-to-peer campaigns to community events, explore creative ways to raise funds and ensure long-term success for your Libraries.
Digital Bookshelf Sponsorship
Create a virtual bookshelf where donors can sponsor digital books or entire shelves. Each sponsored item displays the donor's name and a personalized message. Promote this through social media and email campaigns.
Literary Escape Room Challenge
Design a series of book-themed escape rooms within the library. Teams pay to participate, solving puzzles based on famous literary works to 'escape' within a time limit. Offer different difficulty levels for various age groups.
Personalized Library Card Collection
Create a limited edition series of beautifully designed library cards featuring artwork from local artists or famous book covers. Offer these as collectibles for a premium donation, with different tiers of exclusivity.
Corporate 'Library at Work' Program
Partner with local businesses to bring curated mini-libraries and reading spaces to their offices. Companies pay a subscription fee for regularly updated book collections and optional lunch-and-learn sessions with librarians or authors.
Community Story Quilt
Invite community members to contribute personal stories or favorite book quotes on fabric squares. Assemble these into a large quilt displayed in the library. Donors can sponsor squares or the entire quilt, with proceeds funding library programs.
AI-Powered Book Recommendation Kiosk
Install an interactive kiosk using AI to provide personalized book recommendations based on user preferences. Visitors make a small donation to receive a custom reading list and can opt for a premium subscription for ongoing recommendations.
Literary Time Capsule Gala
Host an elegant gala where attendees contribute items representing current literary culture to a time capsule. Auction off the rights to add items and to open the capsule in 25-50 years. Theme the event around a futuristic library concept.
Banned Book Subscription Box
Create a monthly subscription box featuring books that have been banned or challenged, along with educational materials about censorship and literary freedom. Partner with publishers for discounted bulk purchases.
Library-Business Innovation Hub
Transform a section of the library into a co-working and innovation space. Partner with local businesses to sponsor desks, meeting rooms, and tech equipment. Offer tiered memberships for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
Literary Landmark Geocaching Adventure
Create a citywide geocaching adventure based on local literary landmarks or fictional locations from books set in your area. Participants donate to receive clues and can win prizes for completing the trail. Partner with local businesses for prize donations.
In 2025, effective digital fundraising strategies for libraries include leveraging artificial intelligence for data analysis, hosting hybrid events, and personalizing outreach across generations.
To optimize library websites for fundraising in 2025, focus on search engine optimization (SEO), user experience, and clear calls-to-action.
The top fundraising trends for libraries to watch in 2025 include the rise of artificial intelligence, the growing importance of sustainability efforts, and the shift towards personalized donor experiences.
In 2025, libraries can leverage social media for fundraising by focusing on platforms like META (Facebook) and embracing direct messaging strategies.
In 2025, libraries have access to various grant opportunities, including the LSTA Community Impact Grants offered by the California State Library. These grants support projects that address community needs and align with local aspirations, focusing on equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
Learn everything you need to know about hosting a Read-A-Thon fundraiser. Learn how to start one and discover the best tips to raise more money.
© 2025 Zeffy, inc. All rights reserved.