Palm Springs Library Fundraising Plan Includes Naming Rights for Donors

The Palm Springs Public Library is exploring a creative approach to fundraising by offering naming rights for various spaces and features within the facility. This initiative, endorsed by the Library Board of Trustees, will be presented to the Palm Springs City Council for approval.

The proposed plan allows donors to contribute at different levels, with high-end naming opportunities for major spaces priced at over $100,000. While no specific amounts have been set for smaller donations, library officials suggest that contributions could also support naming rights for items like chairs or bookshelves, making it accessible for a wider range of community members to participate.

Library Director Jeanine Kayes emphasized that every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference in supporting the facility’s future. The funds raised will help finance renovations and improvements, ensuring the library remains a modern and welcoming space for generations to come.

Stephanie Miner, CEO of Success for Nonprofits, sees this as a practical and effective way to secure funding. "This is a great idea. Many organizations use capital campaigns and naming rights to raise money for big projects," she said. "Imagine how special it would be for a family to visit a library space named in their honor."

Chauncey Thompson, CEO of Barton CPA, agreed, calling it a common fundraising strategy. "Other cities have done this successfully. It’s a smart way to engage the community and bring in funds that will directly benefit library users," he said.

While some argue that it is unfortunate for the community to have to fund a public institution, supporters of the campaign believe it fosters civic pride and long-term investment. "It is what it is," Miner said. "This is an opportunity for the community to be part of something meaningful."

As public library membership declines among younger generations, Thompson believes this initiative could reignite interest in the library and encourage a legacy of literacy in Palm Springs.

If approved by the city council, the fundraising effort could begin in the coming months, allowing residents to take part in shaping the future of the Palm Springs Public Library.

For updates on this initiative, visit NBCPalmSprings.com.

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