Support the Foundation for the Kent County Public Library (FKCPL) 2024 Annual Appeal

Since its establishment in 2010, the Foundation for the Kent County Public Library (FKCPL) has raised money, built a reserve fund, and regularly provided funding to support specific requests from the Executive Director and Board of Trustees of Kent County Public Library (KCPL).

In 2011, led by Bob Ingersoll, the FKCPL’s “Love Your Library” campaign received extraordinary public response, more than making up the deficit that the library faced during a time of great financial uncertainty. Every year since, FKCPL has conducted successful mail solicitations, with the exception of 2021 when no funding was requested. Instead, FKCPL sent a mailing expressing gratitude to all past donors. Even without a specific request the community answered with significant donations, continuing to demonstrate strong and significant support for the public library.

As FKCPL launches its 2024 annual appeal, the Board of Directors would like to acknowledge the commitment of two former directors, Bob Ingersoll and Alice Ritchie, both of whom passed away in 2024. Their clear vision, unwavering advocacy, and embodiment of the “love your library” rallying cry elevated FKCPL’s mission during the years they served on the Board of Directors. FKCPL also expresses deep appreciation to Marjo Rasin and Sandy Durfee, both of whom are stepping down from = their role on the Board, for their steadfast and enthusiastic support of KCPL.

Over the years, FKCPL has funded a variety of requests, including the recently unveiled full redesign of the library’s website; support for the three phases of KCPL’s Project 2020, which provided capital improvements and enhanced spaces for the Chestertown branch; and the purchase of new outdoor book returns for the Chestertown and North County branches.

The continued financial support from FKCPL enables the library to undertake special projects and provide enhanced services to the community.

2024 Annual Appeal: Crucial Tech – Protecting Adult Digital Literacy in Our Community

KCPL is committed to broadening connections, expanding knowledge, and strengthening community, which makes supporting the community’s digital literacy and information access needs imperative. For some in our community, the library is the only place they can use a computer or reliably access the internet. This year, KCPL has requested funding from the FKCPL to replace outdated technology at all three library locations. Several computers that are currently in use are out of warranty and are so old that they will cease to be supported for upgrades and security updates in 2025. New computers must be purchased before these older devices can no longer be updated. Without replacements, the library will be unable to continue to provide its current level of services related to internet access, support for job seekers, and development of digital library skills. Staff productivity will also be negatively impacted if new devices cannot be purchased.

Recognizing the importance of supporting the community in this way, the FKCPL’s 2024 annual appeal aims to raise $17,700 to purchase 10 desktop computers to provide computer and internet access for library patrons; 3 staff workstations; and 3 staff laptops.

If you would like to support FKCPL’s 2024 annual appeal, donations for this project can be mailed to:
Foundation for the Kent County Public Library, Inc.
P.O. Box 24
Chestertown, MD 21620

The Foundation for the Kent County Public Library is a 501c3 nonprofit that supports the mission of KCPL by assisting in ensuring the long-term financial viability of the library and providing funds for special projects and needs that are not covered by KCPL’s annual operating budget.