Types of Donations

Your gift to the Ryerson Library Foundation is a statement of your commitment to making the Grand Rapids Public Library the best it can be for the community it serves. The Ryerson Library Foundation serves as the fundraising and advocacy arm of the Grand Rapids Public Library. There is a contribution level right for everyone...or you can make up your own.

ENDOWMENT FUND GIFTS (CASH OR PLANNED GIFTS) allow the Ryerson Library Foundation to build a strong base for the future. All donated funds remain in principal, while interest is put to work for the improvement of the library and its branches. Planned Gifts can show a lifetime of caring, and can be made through your will or a gift of property, life insurance, stocks or annuities. The Ryerson Library Foundation can answer any questions you may have about your planned gift to lifelong learning through the Grand Rapids Public Library.

CORPORATE AND FOUNDATION SUPPORT is becoming increasingly important to the Ryerson Library Foundation as the GRPL expands its programs..

MATCHING GIFTS. When you give to the Ryerson Library Foundation, check to see if your employer has a matching contributions policy that will help maximize the power of your gift. The process is simple and we'll be glad to help.

GENERAL, UNRESTRICTED CONTRIBUTIONS. Many of these gifts are generated through the Annual Fund Campaign. All gifts, in any amount, are needed and appreciated.

DESIGNATED GIFTS can support specific projects at any of the Library's facilities. Generous donors have purchased new equipment, new collections, special programming, and capital needs. Your gift will be appreciated by everyone who uses the Library.

MEMORIAL GIFTS identify a contribution to the Library for a special book or another item you and your family purchase to commemorate the life of a loved one. Libraries have touched the lives of all of us from cradle to grave. Giving a gift to the Foundation in memory of a loved one is a wonderful way to recognize this person forever. Based on the level of memorial gift, the Foundation will use these memorial gifts to either purchase books, other library materials, or minor capital needs. Recognition in memory of your loved one will be placed on these items and in the Foundation’s Annual Report.

HONOR GIFTS are a creative way to celebrate a birthday, graduation, holiday, anniversary or another personal celebration with a lasting contribution to purchase a book or other library collection item. Whatever the occasion, it is a great way to say you care. The fortunate recipient will enjoy the tribute of a gift that will touch the lives of children, families and businesses in the West Michigan community for a lifetime as you remember a special occasion in their lives. Based on the level of the honor gift, the Foundation will use these funds to either purchase books, other library materials, or minor capital needs. Recognition in honor of this special person will be placed on these items and in the Foundation’s Annual Report.