Business Details
29 Years
experience
Empowering Berkeley's Libraries Through Philanthropy
The Friends Of The Berkeley Public has been dedicated to transforming public library services since 1997. Our mission focuses on amplifying public investment to create extraordinary library experiences through strategic grant-making, innovative programming, and community partnerships. We fund critical building improvements, literacy initiatives, and technology upgrades that extend beyond standard public funding. Our team combines decades of experience in nonprofit management with deep community connections to advance equity through library access.We maintain rigorous financial transparency and accountability standards while fostering groundbreaking projects like the Story Room renovation and STEM literacy programs. Our work ensures Berkeley's libraries remain dynamic centers for learning, creativity, and community connection.
Services
Literacy Programs
Building Renovations
Technology Grants
STEM Education
Community Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have funded $30M+ in library improvements since 1997
- Our grants support innovative programs like Reading Is Instrumental
- We maintain 94% administrative efficiency according to recent audits
- Our team includes library science experts with 20+ years' experience
- We partner with institutions like Berkeley Symphony and Cornerstones of Science
Services
Literacy Programs
We fund innovative literacy projects that reach underserved communities. Our Berkeley Builds Readers program brings library resources to childcare centers, while Conscious Kits promote critical thinking through diverse subject matter. We also produce Reading Is Instrumental, a musical storytime series co-produced with the Berkeley Symphony.
Building Improvements
We finance critical infrastructure upgrades and space modernization projects. Current initiatives include transforming the Central Library's Story Room into a children's learning space and creating flexible study areas. Past projects encompassed seismic retrofitting and establishing California's first Net Zero Energy public library branch.
Technology Grants
We provide funding for technology enhancements that expand public access. This includes laptop lending programs, digital device collections, and hotspot distribution. Our investments ensure equitable access to educational resources and support remote learning initiatives during community crises.
STEM Education
We develop hands-on STEM literacy projects using the Cornerstones of Science model. Our programs integrate science education with library resources, featuring interactive exhibits and partnerships with local institutions to create engaging learning experiences for all age groups.
Community Partnerships
We forge strategic partnerships to enhance library offerings. Current collaborations include the Charlie Cart Project for culinary literacy and the Library Love Letters virtual author series. These partnerships expand programming capabilities and create unique community engagement opportunities.
People
Kathy Huff
Executive Director
Kathy Huff leads the Foundation's strategic initiatives with 15+ years of nonprofit leadership experience. She oversees grant programs, donor relations, and community partnerships while maintaining the organization's financial stewardship and operational excellence.
Christa Aboitiz
Board Member
Christa Aboitiz contributes governance expertise as a board member. With extensive experience in community development, she helps shape policy and strategic direction while supporting outreach efforts to expand the Foundation's community impact.
Michael Pollan
Foundation Council
Michael Pollan serves on the Foundation Council, lending his literary expertise and community influence. The renowned author advocates for library programs and participates in fundraising events to support literacy initiatives.
Nancy Skinner
Foundation Council
Nancy Skinner contributes policy expertise from her public service background. As a council member, she supports advocacy efforts and helps connect the Foundation with community stakeholders to enhance library services.
Linda Schacht Gage
Cody Award Recipient
Linda Schacht Gage received the Cody Award for her exceptional library advocacy. As a major donor and program supporter, she funds critical initiatives and participates in community engagement efforts to strengthen library services.
Questions
How does the Foundation support library services?
We fund grants for building improvements, technology upgrades, and literacy programs that exceed standard public funding capabilities.
What are current priority projects?
Our current focus includes renovating the Central Library's Story Room and expanding early childhood literacy initiatives across all branches.
Can I donate physical items to the library?
We primarily accept monetary donations to maintain program flexibility, but coordinate special in-kind donations through our partnership programs.
How are grant recipients selected?
Library staff identify needs, and our board approves grants based on strategic priorities and community impact potential.
What donor recognition programs exist?
We offer the Rosa Shattuck Circle for $1,000+ donors and Legacy Society for planned giving participants.
How can businesses get involved?
Local businesses can sponsor events, fund specific programs, or participate in our corporate partnership initiatives.
