Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Partner in Library Support & Community Enrichment
Founded in 1966, the Jefferson County Public Library: Foundation (JCLF) has dedicated over five decades to strengthening Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL) through strategic fundraising and community advocacy. Our mission centers on expanding free access to educational resources, technology, and cultural programs for all Jeffco residents. With a volunteer-driven model supported by a 13-member board and professional staff, we channel funds into early literacy initiatives, capital improvements, and innovative library spaces like the Discover Together outdoor adventure areas. Our semi-annual Whale of a Used Book Sales and Whales Tale bookstore generate over $100,000 annually, while partnerships with organizations like 240 Union Creative Grille amplify our impact.Through Colorado Gives Day campaigns, planned giving, and individual donations, weve sustained critical programs such as the Library Summer Challenge and Hard Times Writers Workshop. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation, we maintain rigorous financial transparency, ensuring every dollar directly benefits JCPLs diverse community. Our volunteer network of 200+ active members contributes thousands of hours annually, reflecting our core belief that libraries are essential community hubs requiring collective stewardship.
Services
Fundraising Campaigns
Book Donations
Volunteer Programs
Literacy Support
Capital Improvement Grants
Community Events
Used Book Sales
Library Advocacy
Details
- Year established: 1966
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience supporting Jefferson County Public Library.
- Our volunteer-driven model maximizes community impact through 200+ active volunteers.
- We generate over $100,000 annually through innovative fundraising initiatives.
- Our partnerships with local businesses expand program reach and effectiveness.
- We maintain strict financial transparency with all funds directly benefiting JCPL.
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation
Services
Fundraising Campaigns
We organize annual fundraising initiatives including Colorado Gives Day, Giving Tuesday, and Library Giving Day campaigns. These efforts support early literacy programs, technology upgrades, and capital improvements at Jefferson County Public Library. Our semi-annual Whale of a Used Book Sales generate over $100,000 annually for library services.
Volunteer Programs
Our volunteer network of 200+ members contributes 10,000+ hours annually to library operations. Volunteers staff the Whales Tale bookstore, assist with book sales, and support literacy programs. The Friends Council provides leadership while community members participate in advocacy and event planning activities.
Literacy Support
We fund critical literacy initiatives including the Library Summer Challenge, which served thousands of children in 2025. Our programs provide free access to educational resources, technology, and cultural engagement opportunities. The Hard Times Writers Workshop offers adult education programs throughout the year.
Capital Improvements
Our foundation funds major library enhancements like the Discover Together: Outdoor Adventure Spaces at Standley Lake and Belmar Libraries. We support technology infrastructure upgrades and maintain specialized library spaces through targeted fundraising campaigns and community partnerships.
Community Events
We host cultural events including Shakespeare in the Parking Lot performances and Jurassic World Rebirth movie fundraisers. Annual events like Dine and Donate at 240 Union Creative Grille generate 25% of food sales for library programs. These events combine entertainment with critical fundraising for library services.
People
Jo Schantz Hall
Executive Director
Jo Schantz Hall leads JCLF's professional staff and volunteer Friends organization. With extensive nonprofit management experience, she oversees fundraising operations, donor relations, and strategic partnerships that support Jefferson County Public Library's mission.
Vicki Kowan-Ford
First Executive Director
Vicki Kowan-Ford served as JCLF's inaugural Executive Director from 1995-1996. Her leadership established the foundation's operational framework, creating the first four-person board of directors and setting standards for community engagement and library advocacy.
Questions
How can I donate books to Jefferson County Library Foundation?
Donate books, CDs, DVDs, or vinyl records at our Wheat Ridge warehouse Mondays and Tuesdays 9AM-4PM. We also accept donations during our semi-annual Whale of a Used Book Sales events.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
Volunteer roles include staffing the Whale’s Tale bookstore, assisting with book sales, participating in advocacy efforts, and joining the Friends Council. Over 200 volunteers contribute 10,000+ hours annually.
How does JCLF support library programs?
We fund early literacy initiatives, technology access programs, cultural events, and capital improvements through fundraising campaigns, book sales, and donor contributions. Our 2025 initiatives include the Library Summer Challenge and outdoor learning spaces.
Are donations to JCLF tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation, all donations to Jefferson County Library Foundation are fully tax-deductible. We provide official receipts for all contributions.
What community events does JCLF organize?
Annual events include Dine and Donate at 240 Union Creative Grille, Shred-A-Thon document destruction days, Jurassic World Rebirth movie fundraisers, and Shakespeare in the Parking Lot performances.
