Fundraising is often an underutilized tool for libraries, yet it's essential for maintaining and growing services in today’s challenging financial landscape. While public funding covers many basic operations, it often falls short when it comes to expanding programs, upgrading technology, or enhancing library facilities. However, many library directors are hesitant to fully embrace fundraising, often due to widespread misconceptions that make the process seem more daunting than it really is.
In this blog, we’ll debunk 10 common myths about library fundraising, empowering you with the knowledge to build a robust fundraising strategy that can help your library thrive and better serve your community.
1. Myth: Libraries Don't Need to Fundraise
Reality: Even with public funding, most libraries require supplemental resources to grow and enhance services. Programs, technology upgrades, and building improvements often need more than taxpayer dollars provide. Fundraising helps bridge that gap, allowing your library to thrive.
2. Myth: Only Big Libraries Can Fundraise Successfully
Reality: Any library, no matter the size, can run successful fundraising campaigns. Small libraries have the unique advantage of being deeply connected to their communities, which often translates into more personalized and impactful donor relationships.
3. Myth: My Community Doesn't Have Enough Money to Support Fundraising
Reality: Fundraising isn't just about major gifts; it's about building relationships. People of all income levels often want to support local causes. Corporate partnerships, recurring small donations, or volunteer contributions are just as valuable as large donations. Remember, every little bit helps!
4. Myth: We Don't Have the Time or Resources to Fundraise
Reality: While fundraising takes effort, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small—create a fundraising committee, create a "donate a book" program, or engage in Giving Tuesday. Over time, you can build momentum, create processes, and involve even more volunteers to ease the load and expand the leadership capacity of your organization. You don’t need to shoulder the burden alone!
5. Myth: Fundraising is Only About Money
Reality: Fundraising is about more than dollars—it’s about relationships. Whether through events, social media engagement, or volunteer opportunities, fundraising helps deepen community connections and builds lasting loyalty. Plus, a strong network of supporters can be invaluable in other areas of your library’s success.
6. Myth: Grant Writing is Too Complicated
Reality: While grant writing can seem intimidating, many libraries successfully secure grants by starting with smaller, local opportunities. With practice and clear goals, your library can tap into these valuable resources. Start simple, and over time, you’ll become more confident in applying for larger grants. Be sure to not allocate too much of your time to grants because often they require reporting the management.
7. Myth: We Can Only Fundraise Once a Year
Reality: Fundraising doesn’t have to be limited to a once-a-year campaign. Smaller, ongoing initiatives like monthly giving programs or planned giving opportunities can help your library raise funds steadily throughout the year, ensuring sustainability for programs and operations.
8. Myth: Our Donors Will Get Tired of Being Asked for Money
Reality: If you’re building genuine relationships and showing donors the impact of their contributions, they won’t get "ask fatigue." People who support your library understand that their gifts are making a difference. Regularly share success stories and updates so donors feel connected to the cause rather than overwhelmed by the asks.
9. Myth: Our Library Already Has a Budget, So We Don't Need Fundraising
Reality: Public funding often covers basic operational needs, but what about expanding your programming, upgrading technology, or creating new community spaces? Fundraising gives you the flexibility to dream bigger, enabling your library to offer even more to your community.
Fundraising is not just a tool for survival—it’s an opportunity for growth, engagement, and community building. By debunking these myths, you’ll find that fundraising can be both achievable and rewarding for your library. Whether you're starting small or planning a large campaign, the key is to embrace the possibilities and make fundraising a natural extension of your library’s mission.
Your library is a cornerstone of the community, and with the right approach to fundraising, it can continue to be a beacon of learning and connection for years to come.