Pass the Word

The community library has been the cornerstone of our country for more than a century. William Foote Seward, first director of the Binghamton Public Library, called the library “…the people’s university, in which every man, woman and child of our city shall have part and lot.”

The Broome Library Foundation believes libraries are more than that – they are strategic community assets. They enhance the quality of life in our area. They provide the opportunity for lifelong learning – to discover more about yourself and your world.

• The Foundation was formed in 1999 as an independent non-profit fund-raising arm for the Broome County Public Library.
• Its initial goal was to raise $3.5 million to finish interior of new building. This was accomplished in less than one year.
• The Foundation has developed into an agency to raise money to empower public libraries throughout the Southern Tier region to offer new services and programs to the community in addition to providing literacy outreach programs and additional materials.
• The Foundation initiated the Library Reading Garden Project that is currently underway.
• The Foundation has:
  • Promoted new technology
  • Encouraged youth to use the libraries
  • Assisted developing businesses
  • Provided the tools to inform, inspire and promote library services to the community

The Foundation is dedicated to continue this work, and to expand its assistance to public libraries of the Southern Tier of New York State.