Stronger Together: Two Nonprofits Unite to Support the Bozeman Public Library
Tuesday Jan. 14th, 2025
BOZEMAN — For decades, The Friends of the Bozeman Public Library and the Bozeman Public Library Foundation have shared a common goal: to support and champion the Bozeman Public Library. Today, both organizations are thrilled to share with the community that they are coming together as one unified organization: the Bozeman Library Friends and Foundation.
“For many years, the Bozeman Public Library has been fortunate to have the support of two dynamic organizations dedicated to advocating for the Library and raising funds that significantly expand our materials collections, programs, and services,” Susan Gregory, Bozeman Public Library Director says. “The merger of these two organizations will expand their ability to support the Library and lessen confusion for the public regarding donations. We’re grateful to these two organizations for their constant support of the Library and excited to see them come together as one organization.”
This merger marks the beginning of a new chapter of impact and growth, in service of the Bozeman Public Library and the community.
In 2023, following the completion of a $5.4 million donor-funded Library renovation, the boards of both nonprofits began discussing whether a merger would create efficiencies that would benefit the Library. The decision to merge comes after careful consideration by both boards, with the goal of creating a stronger, more efficient organization.
Janay Johnson, the Bozeman Library Friends and Foundation’s Executive Director shared, “A huge amount of credit goes to the members of both boards, who approached merger discussions through the lens of what is ultimately best for the Library. This decision came from thoughtful considerations about the potential for immediate impact and the foresight they have for future success. I'm thrilled to be in the position to help this organization fulfill its unified mission to support the Library."
Together, the boards determined that having one unified organization would enable them to better support the Library, by:
Creating a single organization, where one board of directors, one staff, and one group of volunteers can work in unison to advance our Library.
Consolidating operating costs into a single organization, which reduces overall expenses and leaves more resources available for the Library.
Increasing the overall capacity to raise funds for a variety of Library needs ranging from daily programming to future transformational projects.
Alleviating confusion for donors who simply want to help the Library!
“This merger represents our collective commitment to ensuring the Library is a safe and welcoming place for all people and that it has the resources it needs to grow and adapt to meet the evolving needs of the community,” said Johnson.
Moving forward, the Bozeman Library Friends & Foundation will continue advocating for the Library, working to expand public support, and building stronger partnerships to benefit our Library and community.
History of The Friends of the Bozeman Public Library
The Friends of the Bozeman Public Library was formed in 1999 by a group of community members who held public libraries and the services they provide in the highest regard. Throughout their history, their focus has remained clear – to raise funds for the Bozeman Public Library through donations and sales of gently-used books. Through their outreach and community book sales, they also have helped instill a love of literacy and knowledge in people of all ages.
History of the Bozeman Public Library Foundation
Since 1983, the Bozeman Public Library Foundation has been advocating and fundraising for the Bozeman Public Library. The Foundation has spearheaded large capital projects such as the campaign to build the Library in the early 2000’s, the purchase of the bookmobile, and the 2022 Library interior renovation. The Foundation also funds programming, digital resources, and equipment purchases on an annual basis.
Bozeman Library Friends and Foundation
New Mission: Our mission is to provide financial support and advocate for the Library, ensuring it has the resources to create opportunities that inspire curiosity, exploration, and connection.
New vision: The Friends and Foundation supports the Bozeman Public Library’s vision of being a vital community cultural center where personal enrichment and civic engagement thrive.
For more information, visit supportbozemanlibrary.org/merger.
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