Our impact.
ACLDF provides sustained support for flexible and innovative Library District programs
Since its founding, the Foundation has built trust and engaged the community. Our endowment has allowed us to enhance funding opportunities, address emerging needs, and strengthen stakeholder relationships. These factors collectively increase the foundation's value to the library and its members, ensuring a lasting positive impact on the community:
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Endowment Building and Planned Giving
Our endowment is approaching $2,000,000.
Our endowment lets our Foundation draw a percentage of their value yearly to provide a stable source of income that can support enhancements of the Library District over the long term. A well-funded endowment gives our Foundation the flexibility to innovate and adapt to enhance each branch to be more welcoming to citizens in their local community.
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Capital Improvement and Facility Enhancements
Enhancements complement and expand upon the core services already provided by tax revenue and add value to the Library District’s mission.
We seek to enhance building renovations, expansions, and the creation of new library spaces. These improvements help ensure that library facilities are modern, accessible, and welcoming to all community members.
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Special Events and Fundraising Campaigns
We organize special events and fundraising campaigns to generate additional support for enhancement of library services. Many of these have been Author Talks where we invite authors to give talks. These events attract literary enthusiasts and provide a platform for local authors.
Over $750,000 in ACLDF-funded enhancements:
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Eleven Snuggle-up Centers at Headquarters Library and branches
A Snuggle-up Center is a specially designed area that fosters a love for reading and learning through a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This space is tailored to young children and their families, providing a comfortable environment where they can enjoy books together.
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Eight Teen Spaces at Headquarters Library and branches
A Teen Space is a vibrant and dynamic area specifically tailored to meet the interests and needs of teenagers. It serves as a haven where young adults can explore, learn, and socialize in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
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Two MakerSpaces at Headquarters Library and one branch
A MakerSpace is a cutting-edge, collaborative environment where creativity, innovation, and learning intersect. Designed to cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels, this space provides the tools, resources, and support for patrons to engage in hands-on projects across various disciplines.
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400 WiFi2Go Units to provide home internet access to families
WiFi2Go is a valuable resource originally designed for travelers seeking hassle-free, unlimited internet access across multiple countries, all at a predictable cost. The Library District used this service to give families an Internet connection while schools were closed during the COVID emergency. The service made sure users could stay connected without the stress of managing data limits or unexpected charges. They are still popular even though the emergency has passed.
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Installed Multi-media Room and Stained Glass at the Headquarters Library
Independent funding for these specialized spaces lets the Library District create environments that respond to the diverse needs of their communities. By making each branch of the Library District more welcoming and available, these spaces help make sure everyone in the county has the opportunity to benefit from the resources and programs offered, ultimately strengthening the Library District’s role as an important community hub.
Impact Highlight: WiFi2Go
“The WiFi2Go program has helped to bridge the digital divide in Alachua County,” said Library Director Shaney T. Livingston. This initiative exemplifies the Foundation’s mission to enrich community life, transforming connectivity into opportunity. The WiFi2Go program was recognized by the Center for Digital Government as the winner of the 2023 Government Experience Project Award.
