WHAT WE DO
Since 1991, donors like you have helped fund the future of King County libraries. You have generously donated more than $20 million for library programs at all 50 KCLS libraries across the county. From Vashon to Skykomish and Shoreline to Federal Way - you have made a difference.
Our Mission
The King County Library System Foundation promotes literacy, learning, and libraries by providing support beyond public funding for initiatives and resources that enable the King County Library System to better serve the needs of our community.
Advocacy
We are champions for our libraries, and advocates for advancing literacy and learning for everyone in our community.
Fundraising
We enable KCLS to inspire and empower more people by generating financial support beyond what public funding provides.
Grant-making
We make possible library programs, outreach and innovations that bring the life-changing benefits of knowledge and literacy to more people, and especially those who are in underserved and vulnerable populations.
HISTORY
Since it was established in 1942, the King County Library System has grown its collection and locations to what you see today - 50 libraries, a collection of 4.5 million items, and 10 million visitors annually. KCLS and the KCLS Foundation work together to offer core library services while making creative ideas and pilot programs possible.
1991
The KCLS Foundation is founded by a small, dedicated group of library supporters.
1994
The Literary Lions Gala launches, hosting True Crime author Ann Rule as the first Keynote Author.
2004
Generous community supporters raise $850,000 for the Library Connection @ Southcenter, bringing the library to more people through the busy retail location. The concept was so popular that the space has been expanded twice since 2004.
2011
KCLS is named Library of the Year by Library Journal.
2014
Donors come together again to raise $1 million for the new Tukwila Library, which officially opened its doors in April 2017.
2016
The innovative ideaX program is launched as a mobile tech learning program on-board Library2Go! vehicles, with seed money from KCLS Foundation donors.
2018
ideaX Makerspace opens at the Bellevue Library, featuring three creative studios, a sound and video recording space, a laser cutter and 3D printer, virtual reality equipment, smart sewing and cutting machines, musical instruments, art kits, and music mixing equipment.
2019
KCLS opens its 50th library in the Panther Lake area of Kent. The completion of this library marks the final new KCLS facility to be completed under the $172 million 2004 Capital Bond measure.
The KCLS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our tax ID number is 91-1505230. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.