WFL FOUNDATION FUNDING PRIORITIES

Technology Training

Educational programming has become a core service for high performing libraries.  An endowment to provide permanent funding for the WFL's technology courses will secure this critical function;

The WFL has a computer training room formally known as the Jackie Room.  Classes are very popular among patrons and are increasingly becoming part of the core services of the WFL.  The Library offers approximately 20 classes per month, including both ongoing classes and special topics.  Classes may address, for example, current technology or new economic trends.  Over the last two years there has been increasing demand for classes on internet based job-seeking tools and online financial management.  New classes frequently reflect requests from Library users, i.e. the over-subscribed class on using your iPhone, Additional offerings include:  a weekly open lap for drop-in help; courses in digital photography; word processing; spreadsheet applications; use of online Library resources or online cookbooks & product reviews.

Programmatic and naming opportunities also available in support of children's and seniors.

Outreach Librarian Chair

The WFL exists not only as the physical structure that people visit, but also as a vehicle to bring library resources and programs into the community.

The outreach program is designed to establish a connection with the school community to teach children what is available at the Library.  It is also a forum for parents to understand how WFL collections support the public school curriculum.  The Library reaches out to homebound residents to provide a delivery service of individualized materials.  and the WFL reaches into the community to understand and fulfill unmet needs by creating programs of support like the ESL program (English as a Second Language).

An endowed fund would permanently support WFL outreach efforts.  Naming opportunities are available.

High School Room

The WFL recognizes a need for a dedicated space for teen Library users.  Naming opportunities are available.

The Main Library opened in 2003 with a middle school room, the Quigley Youth Room, adjacent to the Darehshori Family Children's Room.  The use of the Library by middle school students has grown tremendously since 2003.  Students who learned to value the library as youngsters, and students who identified a need to become library users in middle school, found a place at the WFL.  As middle school students matriculate to high school, there is not a space dedicated to serving their needs, yet the WFL has cultivated a large population of patrons in this demographic.  Research and current usage trends show that, more and more, students are collaborating on study projects and working in teams.

Students use the WFL to complete assignments, meet for group study, conduct research and find entertainment.  The Library is committed to dedicating a space where high school students can work together, and use current technologies without being intrusive to other patrons.  In 2010, the WFL received a two year grant that will enable staff to develop cohesive programs to serve the high school population.

The Branch Libraries

The Wellesley Free Library Branches, The Hills & The Fells, operate solely on private funds.  Annual branch operational expenditures total $80,000.

The $400,000 raised from the 2008 Branch Campaign will be spent down by 2013.  The WFL needs to establish a permanent endowment fund for Branch operations.

The Branches increase residents' access to information, help foster the sense of community within Wellesley, and decrease traffic and over-crowding at the Main Library.  The Main Library has nearly half a million visitors annually -- more than 1,000 people each day.  The Branches also serve a different function than the Main Library, providing an intimate space for families and special groups.  And, the Branches serve the important role of allowing the WFL to provide additional programming for the community.

• Toddler Story Time & Book Babies
• Book Chat
• Reel Talk
• ESL Conversation Group
• Workshops on Marketing Skills for New Writers
  

The Wellesley Free Library Foundation

Supporting overall excellence though current use and endowed funds.  The Foundation's mission is to raise funds that will enhance:

• Library Services
• Special programs and initiatives
• Building and technological improvements
• Library Branches

For more information please contact the WFL Foundation Director of Development at 781-235-1610 x1127.