About Us

In 2000, a passionate group of citizens organized the Durham Library Foundation to develop and encourage the long-term financial health and growth of Durham County Libraries. In 2005, the volunteer organization received a $500,000 National Endowment for the Humanities Challenge Grant, which they successfully matched with $1,500,000 in private contributions.

More than twenty-five years after our incorporation as a non-profit organization, the Durham Library Foundation remains committed to its founding vision of excellence by raising money and managing investments, all in support of Durham County Library. Through a capital campaign and investments savings, the Durham Library Foundation provided $1,200,000 for Main Branch Renewal. Annual giving and investment income fund innovative programs and expand traditional library services to patrons of all ages and stages of life in Durham County, North Carolina. Endowment funds are the source of substantial and ongoing support for Humanities programming, the maintenance and development of the Willis P. and Leona Whichard North Carolina Collection, technology improvements, and enhancements to permanent and circulating collections. The Durham Library Foundation shares the Durham County Library’s vision of Inspiring Lives, Transforming Durham. Join us as we create world-class libraries for the free use and enrichment of all citizens.