FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Libraries Win Big: Community Helps Secure $1.5 Million Matching Grant
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (December 20, 2024) – The Louisville Free Public Library Foundation (Library Foundation) has completed a $1.5 million matching challenge grant offered by the James Graham Brown Foundation. Today, Mayor Craig Greenberg joined the Library Foundation, community leaders, and donors to celebrate this impressive milestone toward the completion of four major library projects across the city: reopening the Parkland Library, renovating the Main and Portland libraries, and constructing a brand-new library in Fern Creek.
The James Graham Brown Foundation issued a transformative challenge in June 2024, committing to match every donation dollar-for-dollar up to $1.5 million for a total impact of $3 million. The community responded wholeheartedly as local foundations, corporate partners, and individual contributors rallied to meet the match in less than six months. Thanks to substantial support from The Crescent Hill Family Foundation ($500,000), the Frances N. Alden Trust ($500,000), the Legacy Foundation of Kentuckiana ($250,000), and community support ($250,000), $1.5 million was raised for the One Library, One Louisville capital campaign, unlocking every available matching dollar for an impressive $3 million toward library projects.
“We are incredibly grateful to the James Graham Brown Foundation for sparking such enthusiasm and generosity within our community,” said Chandra Gordon, Library Foundation’s Executive Director. “This match energized supporters and highlighted Louisville’s deep love for its libraries. Together, we’ve reached a transformative milestone that guarantees equity and access, fosters education, and opens doors of opportunity for everyone.
Mayor Craig Greenberg emphasized the importance of libraries as centers for learning, community, and opportunity: “These projects are about more than books—they’re about building stronger, healthier, more connected neighborhoods. Thanks to this community-wide effort, we’re bringing resources and opportunities to every corner of Louisville.”
The completion of this match fulfills the Library Foundation’s private fundraising commitment, with more than $8 million raised in private donations to support these projects.
Mason Rummel, President and CEO of the James Graham Brown Foundation, highlighted the importance of community support for the library system. “The completion of this match is a testament to the community’s dedication to its public library system. These libraries will enhance civic and educational opportunities for all residents, and we are proud to play a role in its growth.”
Louisville Metro Government initially committed $34 million in public funding for the four projects as part of the first round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations in April 2022. Additional local, state, and federal contributions have since brought the total public investment to over $36 million.
“Libraries transform communities and provide essential resources to address the most pressing challenges facing our city,” said Library Director Lee Burchfield. “Thanks to this extraordinary community effort, we’re one step closer to opening the doors of these new and renovated spaces. I can’t wait to see their positive impact on their neighborhoods.”
With the $1.5 million match secured, the Library Foundation will continue its work raising funds to enhance these projects. “Every gift makes a difference,” said Gordon. “When you support your libraries, you invest in books, technology, safe spaces, and nationally recognized programming serving all Louisvillians. Together, we are building stronger communities, one library at a time.”
*B-roll, renderings and additional information can be found here*
About Louisville Free Public Library
Louisville Free Public Library connects the residents of Louisville and Jefferson County to knowledge and information at our library locations and on the web at LFPL.org. Come on in, the whole world’s inside.
About The Library Foundation
The Library Foundation strives to ensure every Louisvillian has the tools, resources, and information they need to flourish in their community and their lives by opening the doors for community members to engage with, advocate for, and dedicate time and treasure to the Louisville Free Public Library. Learn more at LFPLfoundation.org.
About The James Graham Brown Foundation
The James Graham Brown Foundation was established in 1954 by the noted lumberman, horseman, and entrepreneur. Since its founding, the organization has awarded nearly 4,000 grants totaling over $685 million. The foundation funds a variety of causes and local charities working in the areas of education, human services, economic development, cultural, and civic projects.
###
