Library Foundation

Olathe Public Library Foundation Meets Its 2009 Fundraising Goal

Tom Hutcheson, on behalf of the Olathe Public Library Foundation, accepted a $10,000 donation from Cliff and ElaineTatham at the December meeting of the Olathe Public Library Board of Directors meeting.

For the library’s centennial year, the Tathams had issued a challenge. If donations to the library foundation reached $20,000, by December 1, the Tathams would donate an additional $10,000. By the end of November, the Friends of the Library Board had contributed $8,000 to the foundation. Total contributions reached $20,625 before the designated date, meeting the Tathams’ challenge. The 2009 fundraiser was a success with a total contribution of $30,625.

The couple started the Olathe Public Library Foundation in 2000. The idea was to establish a fund so the proceeds can be used to support the library in providing extra programs and services, above and beyond what the library budget allows. For example, grants from the library foundation have provided funds for the summer reading programs, teen programs, computers, AED defibrillators, two UbiDuos and furniture, just to name a few.

What Is the Library Foundation?

The Olathe Public Library Foundation is a component fund of the Community Fund of Johnson County established for the purpose of enhancing facilities, providing books, and adding other services for the Olathe Public Library System.

Why Does the Library Have a Foundation?

Public funds make libraries possible, but it is private gifts that make them flourish. The Olathe Public Library Foundation was established to ensure the library system remains a vital community resource. The foundation's purpose is to provide a long-term supplemental funding program to assist in providing those services not available through traditional tax-base funding.

How Does the Foundation Support the Library System?

Donations are invested and the interest is used for the benefit of the library system. Foundation contributions may result in funds to offset some of the costs of library system automation, expansion of reference and circulating collections, programming, and assistance for the disabled.

How Can I Contribute to the Foundation?

There are numerous ways to make a contribution to the foundation:

  • Make a tax-deductible donation
  • Make a contribution in memory or in honor of a friend or relative
  • Donate property, investments and/or insurance policies
  • Include the foundation in your will

Contributions are cumulative and contributors will be recognized in an annual report. For further information, please contact Janet Monsees at (913) 971-6878.

Contributions can be made payable to the Olathe Public Library Foundation and mailed to 201 E. Park, Olathe, KS 66061.

Your contribution is important! Continuing contributions are necessary to assist the library system in achieving excellence. A gift to the foundation is a gift of knowledge to the community.

Foundation Board

Clifford Tatham, Chair
Emily Baker, Secretary
Vivian Crosby
Dana Lambert
Linda Schoonover
Robert Shands

Honorary Members

Don Ashlock
Nell Bowen
Diane Costello
Ralph Dennis
Ruth Ann Hackler
Tom Hall
Betty Hougland
Maron Moore
George Schlagel
Dr. Ron Wimmer
Dr. Marvin "Doc" Wollen