In March of 2018 the Eckhart Library Foundation was formed by a group of patrons passionate about the library's sustainability through a century-long history of not bonding or borrowing. While conversations had taken place prior about the future of sustainability, a devastating fire occuring on July 2, 2017 was the catalyst to formally incorporate the Foundation to provide long-term support for future generations to enjoy the library.

Ensure literacy, learning, and a place for all - forever, through steadfast support of Eckhart Public Library's critical operations and infastructure.

As discussion centered around recovery, we knew that to continue as a historic landmark we faced additional challenges. Further, we knew that these were challenges that would endure beyond the fire recovery.

On the one-year anniversary of the fire, in 2018, we announced the For Every Citizen campaign to establish the Eckhart Library Foundation. The Foundation was awarded 501(c)(3) status in March 2018 a board of seven directors elected to lead it.

Today the Foundation is dedicated to identifying and growing relationships with donors who can rely on us for a thoughtful investment policy. The Foundation follows strict accounting and reporting protocols and has a focus on donor intent and follow up. By providing funds for emergencies and maintenance, the Foundation allows the library to leverage its public funds to focus on ways that serve the public such as materials and programming.

To learn more about how we support the library and our mission, visit the Our Work page.