What is the purpose of the Foundation?
The Foundation’s purpose is to attract, house, and distribute private gifts of cash and property to and for the exclusive use of the Middle Country Public Library.
Why do we need the Middle Country Library Foundation?
Foundations in support of public entities (libraries, public schools, etc.) are a growing phenomenon throughout the country. In New York and elsewhere, tax-supported libraries must look to the private sector to assist them in meeting the changing needs and constituencies they serve. Private resources can play an important role in providing new and important opportunities for accessing and processing information.
Who is involved in directing the Foundation?
It is managed and directed by a group of private citizens (trustees) representing business, cultural, and civic leadership on Long Island.
Are the Library Board and Administration involved?
Yes. The Director and a representative of the Library Board sit as permanent ex-officio trustees. However, a vast majority of the trustees are not directly connected with the Middle Country Public Library, except as interested citizens committed to the support and development of the Library’s regional and national projects and innovative model programs.
What types of things does the Foundation Fund?
The Foundation funds:
Family Place Libraries™ including Family Place LI,
Miller Business Resource Center and Adult Literacy Services,
2-1-1 Long Island Database,
The Family Center and family support programs such as the Parent-Child Home Program,
Teen services and programs,
the Nature Explorium, and
Seniors/Lifelong Access Initiatives.
Will these gifts reduce the taxpayers’ obligation to the Library?
No. The Foundation’s mission is to supplement, augment and complement the basic library program by providing new opportunities that would only be available through private resources.
Who decides what projects and programs the Foundation will support?
The Foundation Board decides what is to be funded, in consultation with the Library administration. However, donors to the Foundation may direct their contributions to specific areas. The Library Board has the final legal say in accepting or rejecting any gift from the Foundation.
How does the Foundation raise its funds?
Funds are raised from individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Foundation undertakes an Annual Campaign as well as several major fundraising activities each year, including the Distinguished Speakers Series, A Night at the Library, the Women’s EXPO, and the Strictly Business Tradeshow. Generally, the Foundation will be seeking substantial contributions from corporations and foundations for specific projects and programs.
Are there any assurances that the Foundation will use its funds as intended and will not lose funds through risky investments?
Yes. The Foundation is a non-profit corporation chartered by the State of New York and subject to guidelines covering fund raising activities. This corporation is granted exemption under section 501 (c) (3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue code and subject to further reporting requirements and rules covering such things as annual distributions, jeopardy investments, conflicts of interest, restricted funds, etc.
Will the Foundation spend all that it raises or will it save money for the future?
The Foundation expends the majority of its income annually to support the Library’s regional and national projects and special programs. All grant funds designated for specific projects are expended during the timeframe determined by the grant stipulations. In addition, the Foundation has established the Hagedorn Endowment for Family Place Libraries™ as well as a General Endowment Fund to generate a sustainable source of income for the Foundation into the future.
What does it cost to administer the Foundation?
Some funds are expended directly by the Foundation to support fundraising activities or are paid to the library to reimburse partial salaries of staff members involved in fund raising, bookkeeping or administrative work for the Foundation. More than 85% of all funds collected directly benefit the Library’s regional and national projects.
Are all donations tax deductible?
All donations to the Middle Country Library Foundation are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Can’t we simply give directly to the Library?
Yes. However, the Foundation provides the most protected vehicle for making donations. Its exempt status allows the maximum amount of individual tax deduction. Many businesses and other organizations will not give to public entities without this qualifying status. Private foundations are sometimes restricted in giving to public libraries, but are not restricted from giving to 501(C)(3) organizations. In addition, the Foundation provides a “focus of support” for the Library’s regional, national and special initiatives.
Can the Foundation give funds to other organizations?
No. Under its state charter and federal exemption, the Foundation may only give funds to the Middle Country Public Library.