Our Impact

At The Library Foundation, we believe that strong libraries build strong communities. Since 1993, our mission has been to enhance and expand the work of the Springfield-Greene County Library District by making lasting impacts on library services, spaces, and experiences for all.

Power in Partnership

Collaborative funding has enabled the Library Foundation to deliver transformative projects that improve access, inclusion, and enrichment across all library branches:

Capital Support for Republic and the Library Center Hatch AuditoriumThe Library Foundation is currently working to support the Library District’s current Capital Projects. Currently, our Foundation works to partner with donors to build a new library branch in Republic and to build a 500-seat auditorium at the Library Center. We are seeking additional partners on both projects and have been honored to partner with the Hatch Foundation for the naming rights to this state-of-the-art auditorium.
Midtown Accessibility and Other ImprovementsThe Library Foundation is grateful for the generous support of the Musgrave Foundation for a $100,000 grant to assist in expenses associated with our Midtown Capital Project, which focused on making ADA-accessibility and other key infrastructure improvements to our beautiful, historic downtown Carnegie Library so that it may thrive well into the future. All floors of our 1905 building are now accessible for our patrons of all abilities thanks to new ramps and a fully repaired elevator.
Sensory-Friendly Resources Thanks to a 2019 grant from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, every Greene County library branch now offers sensory-safe toys and tools to help create welcoming experiences for patrons of all abilities. Resources such as noise-canceling headphones, gel tiles, weighted lap pads, and fidget toys can be requested to help ensure a positive visit for all.
Play and Learn Center at The Library Station With the generous support of the Ball Foundation, The Library Foundation established a vibrant Play and Learn Center in 2021. This imaginative space features a giant light board, hands-on toys, and a flexible “imagination station,” offering young children new ways to explore, learn, and grow through play

Capital Project Support

For more information about the many wonderful projects the Library Foundation has undertaken in its over 30 years of work, please visit our History page.

In Memoriam

We are honored to steward legacy gifts that reflect the lifelong passion of community members who believed deeply in the power of libraries.

Ursula Marie Laton In 2017, Marie Laton—an avid reader and former librarian—left a generous estate gift to establish the Laton Endowment. This unrestricted fund provides the Library with annual flexible funding to address its greatest needs and ensure its continued growth.
Jim Gorst Following the unexpected passing of Library Foundation board member Jim Gorst in 2020, donations in his memory funded a new portable stage system for The Library Center Auditorium—safer and more versatile for public programming. Remaining funds supported the installation of a bird feeding station at the Republic Branch Library, honoring Jim’s love of nature and community.
David Patillo David Patillo served over 27 years as the Library’s Information Technology Director, shaping the Library District’s technology landscape. A memorial endowment in his name helps ensure continued investment in innovative, future-focused technology solutions.

Funding the Future

From historic projects like the development of The Library Center—southwest Missouri’s first destination library—to capital campaigns like the renovation of the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch, The Library Foundation plays a critical role in shaping the Library’s future.

Republic Branch Project

Republic Branch bit. Photos here.

Hatch Auditorium Project

We are currently helping “Set the Stage” for the construction of a 500-seat auditorium at The Library Center. This venue will allow the Library to host large-scale programs, performances, and civic events that inspire and inform our community.

For more information on how you can support this exciting project, please contact The Library Foundation at foundation@thelibrary.org or call (417) 616-0460.

Future Opportunities

Our Library District has recently released a new strategic plan for 2025-2030 with a number of exciting opportunities for our Library Foundation to engage to support. To discuss these opportunities, get in contact!