Introducing the
Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation
What's in a name?
When the Foundation was formed in November 1990, the dedicated founding group chose to call it the Ryerson Library Foundation. The building that Martin Ryerson Jr. donated to the citizens of Grand Rapids in 1904 was called the Ryerson Library until 1967, when the Library expanded into a new addition. At that time, the name was changed to the Grand Rapids Public Library.
The Foundation's founders had one goal in mind: to renovate the beautiful, historic Ryseron building. They shared touching memories of going to the Ryerson Library throughout their childhood and into adulthood. However, over the years, that one dream was expanded to include many more dreams. To date, the Foundation has raised close to $15 million on behalf of the Grand Rapids Public Library.
The Foundation serves all eight locations of the Grand Rapids Public Library. During recent Strategic Planning sessions, the idea of changing the Foundation's name came up to better reflect the full scope of the fundraising and advocacy the Foundation conducts on behalf of the Library.
The reasons for this are compelling. It will make an immediate connection as to the purpose of the Foundation. The name Ryerson is not one that the people today connect to the Library. We will honor the Ryerson legacy by calling our planned giving society the Ryerson Society.
Please join us as we celebrate our past as well as our future - as the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation.
For information about gift annuities and other plans you can use to make a gift to the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation, contact Marcie Lewis.