The mission of the Downingtown Library is to ensure that every resident of the greater Downingtown Area has access to exceptional opportunities to read, learn, create, connect and contribute to a better quality of life
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FUND
The Challenge
From 1914 until late 2014, the Downingtown Library was located in a 19th century fieldstone home that was once a boarding school and part of the Underground Railroad. Over the years, the Library gradually expanded from one room, to the entire first floor and back porch, and finally to the second floor. The Library joined the Chester County Library System in 1961.
Not surprisingly, the building that for almost 100 years had been home to the Library became inadequate to meet the information needs of the 21st century.
The Solution
After much discussion, research, and community involvement, the Downingtown Library Board of Trustees decided to move the Library. The new facility is located in the heart of Downingtown, adjacent to Kerr Park. It encompass 7,000+ sq. ft. on a 1.75-acre lot and provides:
- Handicapped accessibility, in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act
- Additional rooms for programs, educationalservices, and tutoring
- Additional computer workstations and wireless connectivity
- Expanded work and reading areas
- 33 parking spaces and a drive-up book drop
The Campaign
In order to generate funds to purchase and renovate the new library building, the Downingtown Library has launched a $2.2 million capital campaign. To date, almost $2 million has been secured through grants, sale of assets, and fundraising. The Library Board and volunteers will continue to raise contributions and pledges from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government funding programs, all to complete the library’s expansion and benefitting the community.
Libraries educate individuals.
Libraries build citizens.
Libraries foster thoughtful communities.
These are essential components of communities – worth fighting for and worth funding in Downingtown, the Good Neighbor Community.
Your Gift
There are many ways to contribute to the Campaign for the Downingtown Library:
- An outright gift of cash, stock, or other real property
- A multi-year pledge, designed by the donor to fit personal giving plans
- A named gift for a specific building area in honor or in memory of a loved one
- A gift to be matched by the donor’s company. Contributions will be carefully used to build this much needed building
The mission of the Downingtown Library is to ensure that every resident of the greater Downingtown Area has access to exceptional opportunities to read, learn, create, connect and contribute to a better quality of life