Libraries have always been more than just books on shelves. The pandemic has shown the importance of delivering materials in a variety of ways to reach as many people as possible by using expanded electronic services and innovative programming. This takes more funds than the library is budgeted through the city of Redwood City. That’s why the Redwood City Library Foundation was formed in 1998—to provide financial support for library services, improvements, and programs to help the library remain responsive to diverse, low-income communities. Currently the RCLF is supporting the Bridging the Digital Divide program, the construction of a Makerspace in the Downtown Library, Career Online High School and the renovation of the Interpretive Center at the Redwood Shores Library. We’ve had to pivot due to the pandemic, but you can support these efforts by donating to the RCLF.
As shown in the graphic below, the library is supported by several organizations sustaining many library programs. Most are their own 501(c)(3) organizations, have their own governing boards, and fundraise independently on behalf of the library. This gives them more flexibility to fulfill their missions to support the library.
Redwood City Friends of Literacy & Project READ
Redwood City Friends of Literacy promotes awareness, raises financial support, and advocates for the inter-generational literacy services of Redwood City’s Project READ. Project READ’s programs are designed to break the cycle of illiteracy by providing literacy services to academically at-risk students and adults in the community and in correctional facilities. Other services to families in the program include distributing books and backpacks to students, as well as providing early literacy activities for preschool children. During COVID-19, Project READ continues to provide services virtually. For more info, please contact rclread@redwoodcity.org or visit www.projectreadredwoodcity.org
Friends of the Redwood City Public Library
The Friends of the Redwood City Public Library operates a resale bookstore in the lobby of the Downtown Library. Proceeds from donations and the sale of books, music, and movies at the store and at community events around the city fund a wide array of children, teen, and adult library programs. They also support programs for the Fair Oaks Library and traveling storytime, participate in community events, and sell honey from the library rooftop bee hives. During COVID-19, Friends of the Library schedules drop-off events to receive donated books for online sales at www.amazon.com/shops/friendsofrwclibrary. For more info, visit friendsofrwclibrary.org .
Archives Committee
The Archives Committee is a group of volunteers who runs the local history room on the mezzanine of the Downtown Library. The Library’s large Local History Collection includes primary-source materials and private papers that allow you to learn about Redwood City’s history. The collection covers all aspects of Redwood City’s development, from the 1850’s to the present day, with emphasis on businesses, public schools, civic organizations, city agencies, and early family histories. Materials do not circulate, but most items can be photocopied upon request. Microfilm of local newspapers is also available. The local history room is closed to the public during COVID-19. For more info, email localhistory@redwoodcity.org, or visit www.rwc-localhistory.com .
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