Annual Fund
Picture a child discovering their favorite book in a cozy reading nook… completely lost in the story. The Effingham Public Library wants to create more of these magical moments.
This year’s annual fund, “A Space for Every Story,” will bring new furniture and learning spaces to the Children’s Room… and create a quiet reading area for students and adults who need a peaceful place to focus.
Every reader – no matter the age – deserves a safe, comfortable place to read and thrive!
Dear Friend of the Library,
Picture a child curled up in a cozy reading nook, completely absorbed in their first chapter book. Imagine a teenager finding a quiet corner to study away from the distractions of home. Envision families discovering the joy of the library together.
These are the moments we want to create at the Effingham Public Library, and we need your help to make them happen.
This year, our annual fund theme is “A Space for Every Story” — because we believe every reader deserves a comfortable place to discover, learn, and grow.
Thanks to supporters like you, we recently completed an expansion of our Children’s Room. The response has been overwhelming. Families are using the space constantly, and we’re seeing children and parents engage with books and learning in wonderful new ways. Your past generosity made projects like this possible, and we’re so grateful.
Now we’d like to continue to breathe new life and joy into the Children’s Room by adding new kid-friendly furniture and interactive items. We want to fill this space with child-sized tables and chairs, soft reading cushions, sensory play stations, and interactive learning centers that will make the library a true destination for young learners. Every child should have a space where their story can begin.
We’d also like to create a quiet reading and reflection area to provide dedicated space for students, adults, and anyone who needs a peaceful place to read, study, or simply think. Everyone deserves a space where their story can unfold without distraction.
We’re raising $30,000 to complete these two projects. This investment will transform how people of all ages experience our library by creating spaces that serve our youngest learners and our community members who need quiet and comfort.
Every gift matters. Whether you’ve supported us for years or this is your first time giving, your contribution will create lasting change. This furniture and these spaces will serve our community for years to come, welcoming thousands of patrons and helping the library grow alongside Effingham.
Help us create a space for every story. I hope you’ll join us in making this vision a reality. Your support has always been the foundation of what makes our library special, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.
If you have any questions, please contact me at 217-342-2464 or amanda@effinghamlibrary.org. I look forward to hearing from you.
All the best,
Amanda McKay,
Library Director
