Business Details
43 Years
experience
Strengthening San Antonio's Libraries Since 1983
Founded in 1983, we are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to strengthening the San Antonio Public Library in service to our community. Our mission is driven by a 40+ member Board of Directors who contribute professional skills, connections, and resources to raise over $50 million for library improvements. We focus on critical initiatives like enhancing teen spaces, expanding literacy programs, and funding capital projects such as the Texana Resource Center renovation. Our advocacy efforts have directly influenced increased city funding for library expansions, extended hours, and improved materials.Through programs like the Literacy Caravan and Born to Read, we address early childhood literacy gaps while supporting underserved communities. Our commitment to transparency is recognized by the Guidestar Platinum Seal, and we maintain strategic partnerships to ensure equitable access to educational resources. We prioritize measurable outcomes, with upgraded teen spaces showing up to 400% increased usage. Our work combines donor generosity with targeted investments in technology, collections, and community-driven programming to create lasting impact.
Services
Literacy Programs
Book Donations
Community Outreach
Capital Projects
Early Childhood Education
Library Renovations
Volunteer Opportunities
Annual Fundraising
Planned Giving
Naming Rights
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We have raised over $50 million for library improvements since 1983
- Our board members contribute professional expertise and community connections
- We implement measurable literacy programs with 400% usage increases in upgraded spaces
- We maintain Guidestar Platinum-level transparency standards
- Our partnerships enable targeted investments in underserved communities
Associations and certifications
- Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency
Services
Literacy Caravan
Our mobile classroom delivers research-based literacy activities to underserved communities. We provide interactive learning experiences for children and caregivers at schools, festivals, and community centers. The program has impacted over 125,000 families since inception, distributing free books and promoting library engagement.
Born to Read
This program distributes bilingual literacy kits to newborns through medical facilities. We provide board books, library information, and reading strategies to families across Bexar County. Our Arte Kids series features collaborations with local cultural institutions to promote early reading.
Capital Projects
We fund facility improvements including the $700,000 Texana Resource Center renovation. Our investments cover technology upgrades, teen spaces, and branch expansions. Current projects include the Carver Branch transformation featuring a recording studio and African American Resource Center.
Planned Giving
Support the library through bequests or trust arrangements. Donors can include specific language in wills to designate gifts for library programs. We work with financial advisors to create lasting legacies that benefit San Antonio's educational resources.
Community Events
Annual events like Catrina Ball and Over the Edge support library programs. These events combine community engagement with critical fundraising for literacy initiatives. Proceeds directly benefit library services and facility improvements.
People
Amy Hone
Executive Director
Leading SAPLF since 2021, Amy directs all operations and strategic initiatives. With extensive nonprofit experience, she focuses on expanding literacy programs and community partnerships. Amy ensures donor investments create measurable library impact.
Cameron Redding
Board Chair
As Board Chair since 2023, Cameron leads governance and strategic direction. A long-serving board member, he prioritizes teen space improvements and capital campaign success. His leadership guides SAPLF's community investment strategy.
Jessica Rivera
Director of Development
Jessica manages donor relations and fundraising initiatives. She oversees annual campaigns and planned giving programs. Her work connects community resources with library needs to support ongoing service expansion.
Denise Liedtka
Director of Marketing & Communications
Denise leads brand strategy and community engagement efforts. She manages event promotions and donor communications. Her team ensures public awareness of library programs and funding needs.
Tammy Andrews
Finance Manager
Tammy oversees financial operations and grant management. She ensures fiscal responsibility and compliance with funding requirements. Her work supports transparent allocation of resources to library programs.
Questions
What does SAPLF do?
We raise funds and awareness to support San Antonio Public Library's programs, technology, and capital projects.
How does SAPLF help children?
Through Born to Read and Literacy Caravan programs, we distribute over 125,000 books to children annually.
Can I specify which library branch to support?
Yes, donors may designate any of our 29 branches including the Central Library.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, contributions are 100% tax-deductible if no goods or services are received.
What is the Texana Resource Center?
A 10,000 sq ft cultural heritage collection undergoing renovation at the Central Library.
How can I get involved?
Support through donations, monthly giving, planned gifts, or participating in events like Catrina Ball.
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