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Newton Public Library Foundation

A gift to the library though the Newton Public Library Foundation means the difference between a good library and a great library! With private support, the library can expand their collections to include more of what the community values in materials, technology, and programming, while serving the needs of children, teens, and adults.

The Newton Public Library Foundation benefactor is Mrs. Edna Criss.  Edna Criss, a life-long resident of Newton worked at the Library repairing books in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Criss’s husband worked for many years as a barber in Newton. Upon her death in 1996, Mrs. Criss’s Will provided that after certain other gifts were made from her estate, the residue of her estate would go to the Newton Public Library. Her gift to the library amounted to $300,000.00. The Trust and Agency Fund held by the City of Newton was transferred for a total start-up amount in the fund of $314,000.00. These funds were deposited into a newly formed organization called the Newton Public Library Foundation. The Foundation is governed by a board comprised of 2 Library Board Trustees; 2 individuals from the Friends of the Library; and 2 Citizens of Newton.

The purpose of the Foundation’s funds is to enhance library programs and expenses that are outside or beyond the library’s normal operating budget. The Foundation is a 501 C (3) organization. Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible and will be retained in a fund, invested, and the investment return will be used to fulfill the Foundation’s goals.

The Foundation has assisted financially with many programs through the years, including our successful annual Summer Reading Programs. Their support is invaluable.

Contact

To make a contribution to the Newton Public Library Foundation or request additional information, please contact:

Nicole Terry                                                                                                                                                        
Library Director                                                                                                                                                            
(641) 792.4108

Friends of the Newton Public Library

The Friends of the Newton Public Library is a nonprofit advocacy organization which supports the Library. Our volunteer members advocate, educate, and raise funds on behalf of the Library, its patrons, and the community. The Friends purchase equipment and materials to enhance the Library’s collections and services, and donate many hours of their time for library sponsored functions and programs.

Contact

To join the Friends of the Newton Public Library, make a contribution, or for additional information, please contact: 
Rita Baker
(641) 831.0420

Volunteer

Volunteer support is an essential component of library operations and an enhancement to our trained professional staff. In keeping with the library’s mission of serving the community and in making the best use of community resources to provide excellent customer service, the library board welcomes and encourages the support of local residents through their membership in the Friends of the Newton Public Library and/or their donation of time and talents to library activities.

Contact

Those interested in volunteering at the Newton Public Library, please contact:

Rebecca Klein                                                                                                                                                             
Public Services Librarian                                                                                                                                          
(641) 792.4108