ANNUAL APPEAL 2026

DONATE ONLINE HERE

Fall 2026

Dear Library Supporter,

Over the past dozen years, the William Jeanes Memorial Library has evolved from a traditional book repository into a community-centered institution: a trusted partner for local families, township organizations, and schools; a gathering place for programs and events; and a technology and digital learning center. Ours is a Library where the noise and activity of hands-on learning are as welcome as quiet reading. What reopened in 2012 as a renovated building has grown into something much bigger: a place our neighbors turn to daily, in more ways and in greater numbers than ever before. That growth is only possible because of supporters like you.

“Wow, why didn’t we come here sooner?! This place is amazing!”

Past Year Highlights:

  • Overall visits to the Library grew by 5% compared to last year, with more than 100,000 patrons walking through our doors.
  • Circulation climbed to 203,000 items borrowed.
  • Attendance at our children’s, teen, and adult programs rose to over 22,000 participants, filling storytimes, book clubs, and workshops to capacity.
  • We welcomed more than 900 new library cardholders into our community.
  • Our expanded slate of programs, technology offerings, and community events drew record engagement throughout the year.

“Thank you for presenting such timely local history, and especially for finding such knowledgeable and enthusiastic speakers.”

We are proud of this growth, but we are also candid about what it costs to sustain it. Like households and businesses across the region, the Library is facing rising costs on nearly every front — utilities, building maintenance, materials, technology, and the cost of employing the dedicated staff who make every visit a good one. These increases have outpaced the growth in our public funding from Whitemarsh Township and the state, widening the gap between what our community needs and what our operating budget alone can provide.

This is where you come in. Your gift to our Annual Appeal directly bridges that gap, allowing us to meet rising demand without compromising on the quality and breadth of what we offer.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY!

Your donation to the 2026 Annual Appeal will help us:

  • Keep programs for children, teens, and adults free and accessible to everyone, even as the cost of running them rises.
  • Maintain and expand our collection of books, eBooks, audiobooks, and digital resources to meet growing demand.
  • Cover the increasing cost of utilities, maintenance, and technology that keep our building safe, comfortable, and connected.
  • Support the exceptional staff who deliver the welcoming, knowledgeable service our community relies on every day.

“That was an excellent program, absolutely excellent!”

The Library is a 501(c)(3) independent non-profit, and your contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

You may give online at jeaneslibrary.org/AnnualAppeal2026, use the enclosed envelope, or in person at either check-out desk.

Many employers offer matching gift programs that can double the impact of your donation — please check with your HR department to see if your company participates.

You can also recommend a gift through your Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)—simply contact your fund administrator and recommend a grant to the William Jeanes Memorial Library. If you are 70½ or older, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your IRA is another tax-smart option: transferring funds directly from your IRA to the Library can satisfy your required minimum distribution while excluding that amount from your taxable income. Or consider including the Library in your estate plans as a lasting way to support future generations of patrons. If you would like to discuss a DAF gift, a QCD, a bequest, or other planned giving options, we welcome the conversation — and as always, we encourage you to consult your tax or financial advisor about what makes sense for your situation.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY!

As we continue to grow to meet our community’s needs, we hope you will join us by supporting the 2026 Annual Appeal.

“An out-of-state children’s librarian is visiting family in the area, and they stopped by the library today. They thought that our children’s library was amazing!”

On behalf of the Board, Staff, Friends, and Volunteers, thank you!

Sincerely,

Lisa A. Clancy, MLS

Director

 

Library Board of Directors:

Diane Smith-Hoban, President

Carly Greis, Vice-President

Richard Anderson, Treasurer

Cathy Levin, Secretary

Ellen Kirby

Rachel Berkson Schupack

Jennifer Swope

 

P.S. If you’ve already donated this year, thank you!

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY!