As we enter the Season of Giving, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the power of charitable gifts and volunteer services. Whether through a donation or offering your time, supporting your local library is a meaningful way to support literacy, digital access and positive change in your community.
There are various ways to make your contributions count, and understanding these options can help you maximize your impact. Here are some creative ways to give to the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation.
1. Recurring donations: Provide steady support
Recurring donations are an easy way to not only provide consistent and reliable income to a nonprofit, but also allows you to provide sustained support within your budget!
- Choose your amount: Decide on a donation amount that fits your budget. We offer weekly, quarterly, monthly or annual options.
- Set up your recurring gift online today: Visit https://afplf.org/donate/ and click the “Recurring Donation” button under “Gift Amount” to set up your recurring gift. You may set up your recurring gift to automatic withdrawals from your bank account or credit card.
- Adjust as needed: Life circumstances change, so don’t hesitate to modify your donation amount or frequency when necessary.
2. Matching gifts: Double your impact
One of the easiest ways to enhance your charitable contributions is through matching gifts. Many employers offer programs that match employee donations to qualified nonprofits, effectively doubling the impact of your gift. Here’s how to take advantage of this opportunity:
- Check your employer’s policy: Before donating, inquire whether your employer has a matching gift program. Many companies, large and small, participate in this initiative.
- Submit the required forms: After making your donation, fill out any necessary forms provided by your employer. This may include submitting a copy of your donation receipt.
- Let us handle the rest: Once your gift is confirmed, we’ll work with your employer to secure the match. Have questions? Contact Jennifer Artigue at .
3. Planned giving: Leave a lasting legacy
Planned gifts allow the library to pursue its mission to provide free access to information and programs well into the future. By making a gift of any size to the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation through a charitable bequest, retirement fund, insurance policy, will and/or estate plan, you are leaving a lasting legacy of support for lifelong learning in our community. Here’s what you need to know:
- Discuss your options: Reach out to Erin Dreiling at to discuss your giving options and how to get started. In making a planned gift, you can choose to leave a specific dollar amount, a percentage of an estate, or a particular asset (like real estate or stocks).
- Consult with an attorney: When considering a planned gift, it’s essential to work with a legal professional to ensure your wishes are accurately reflected in your will.
4. Volunteer or become a Friends of Library member!
Not all contributions need to be financial. Volunteering can be incredibly valuable to nonprofits and the library. Consider these options:
- Join a Friends of the Library group: Friends of the Library organizations are independent groups made up of dedicated individuals from all walks of life who are passionate about supporting a strong public library system for the entire community. These volunteers contribute their time and energy to help with a variety of tasks and projects, raise awareness about library services, and advocate for the resources libraries need to thrive. Learn more about Fulton County Public Library’s Friends of the Library organizations and how to become a member.
- Donate books: Friends groups accept book donations that are in good condition on a limited basis based on their storage capacity. Check the Friends of the Library page for specific books and other needed items.
- Offer your skills: If you have a particular skill—such as graphic design, marketing, or event planning—consider offering your services pro bono.
Supporting your local library can take many forms, and each contribution—whether financial, in-kind, or through advocacy—can have a significant impact. By exploring these options, you can find the best way to align your giving with your values and interests. Remember, every bit counts, and together, we can create lasting change in our communities!
