The Durham Library Foundation was founded as a 501 (c) 3 organization devoted to developing and encouraging long-term financial health and growth of the Durham County Library.
The Foundation solicits gifts from many sources, including those not available to a government-funded library. Private contributions are used to fund programs and improvements that the library could not otherwise afford, and those funds have ensured an extraordinary level of service for Durham, North Carolina citizens.
Impact Stories
2024-25 Grants Announced
DLF provides private funding to support projects and programs beyond the county’s basic library services. Read on for more excellence!
Small Business Center Builds Equity in Entrepreneurship
Our Small Business Center offers free workforce development and business information services, programs, and resources to the Triangle.
Humanities
Enhanced Humanities Programming Provides Opportunity for Growth
Library Fest 5 Showcases that Libraries Provide More than Just Books
Library Fest, to be held in celebration of National Library Fest April 6 – 12, 2025, provides an avenue to promote literacy and lifelong learning that encourages learning across ages and across disciplines.
Your Generous Gifts Made a Lot of Good Happen in 2023-2024
Collections
Additional funding helped narrow the wait time by 12 days.
Tech Kits
Computers, hot spots, resources, and backpacks for loan at Durham County Library’s Bragtown location.
“Push and Play”
Books for youngest readers not requiring a device to tell the story.
Kits
Reading, science, and craft kits at system-wide locations.
North Carolina Collection
Grants provided for the re-binding of North Carolina Collection rare books.
Express Yourself
Multimedia Production Studio for South Branch for tween, teens, and emerging adults.
Women Run Durham
A panel event of esteemed female community leaders including Durham Chief of Police, Chair of Durham County Commissioners, Durham City Manager, and Durham Mayor.
Get Set, Get Ready, Let’s Read
29 at-home daycare facilities receive delivery of rotating books serving 145 children.
Library Fest
A week-long celebration of libraries and their services – and a chance to welcome people back, in person. The theme of “Food” was a framework of diverse programming for all ages.
Saturday Family Fun Hour
Weekend family programming provides free entertaining and enriching activities, including partnerships with Durham’s Music Together and Durham’s Kinder music.