Giving Opportunities

Giving is the highest expression of power.
-Vivian Greene

Our efforts are made possible through the generous support of individual and corporate donors who share our commitment to the community. A gift to the Harford County Public Library Foundation of $1,000 or more is considered a major gift by our organization. Major gifts allow us to meet our fundraising goals and provide an opportunity for a higher level of visibility in our donor recognition efforts. Outlined below are countywide initiatives that occur annually and provide an opportunity for partnership and long-term commitments.

Summer Reading Program

Each summer children from birth to teen register to participate in the Summer Reading Program. Last year more than 18,600 children participated in the program, which is financed entirely by sponsorship. Children receive incentive prizes when they sign up and a completer book when they turn in their reports. Sponsors can sponsor the incentive, completer prize, or both! Harford County Public Library joins the statewide initiative, which each year provides a theme and associated activities for each jurisdiction to adapt for its respective communities.

More information on the HCPL Foundation’s support of the Summer Reading Program, including how you can participate

Winter Reading Program

The Winter Reading Program offers adults a New Year’s Resolution we can all achieve: read six books of your choice and be rewarded! This program operates from January to March and encourages adults to read, participate in book discussion groups and attend author readings. Adults receive an incentive from the HCPL Foundation when they register and a mug from the Friends when they complete the program. The theme and color scheme of the program changes annually which has generated fun mug collections for many of our participants.

HCPL Foundation is currently seeking a $2,500 sponsor for the program.

Gala

The HCPL Foundation hosts a fall fundraising event for the Library to increase awareness of new initiatives, raise funds for library programs and provide a venue for our supporters to enjoy an evening out on the town!

The event occurs the first Saturday evening in November with cocktails, fantastic food and live music. The gala transforms a library branch through the theme of the evening into a destination for our guests. A consistent effort is made to promote local treasures, whether they are musicians, wineries or caterers. Ticket prices are kept at a reasonable level to encourage participation from all of our supporters.

More information about the Gala

Silver Reader

The Silver Reader, launched in February 2006, takes library services to older adults who may no longer have access to branches due to health concerns, lack of transportation and age-related issues. In partnership with the Harford County Office on Aging this fully equipped, handicapped accessible vehicle visits nursing homes, senior centers and assisted living facilities to provide library services.