More Books, Less Waiting for Library Patrons

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (January 5, 2026) — Momentum is building for Louisville’s libraries as Metro’s Million Dollar Match, a $1 million public-private partnership that doubles community donations for books and materials, delivers measurable results, cutting wait times and expanding access at the Louisville Free Public Library (LFPL).

Mayor Craig Greenberg joined city leaders and library advocates today at a press conference today, announcing more than $830,000 has been raised toward the $1 million community goal. Every dollar donated to the $1 million public match approved by Mayor Craig Greenberg and Metro Council is matched by the city to infuse a total of $2 million into the LFPL collection. Together, the investment is already transforming library shelves, with an additional 130,000 new books and materials already added to the collection.

“Our libraries mean so much to our community, so I’ve made it a priority to improve and invest in branches all over Louisville,” said Mayor Greenberg. “Library users and advocates told us that long wait times were standing in the way of access to books and learning, so we’re responding by investing in more books and more materials. This partnership is already working, and I am excited to keep it going.”

Early results show meaningful progress for readers across Louisville:

• Maximum wait times for print books have dropped from 15 weeks to 12 weeks
• The average wait for print titles is now just 16 days
• eBook and audiobook maximum waits have decreased from 30 weeks to 18 weeks, with average waits around 30 days

“Every new book added means fewer people waiting and more readers finding what they need, when they need it,” said Heather Lowe, Director of the Louisville Free Public Library. “Our patrons are already seeing the impact of this investment, and demand continues to grow.” The campaign received an additional boost today with a $100,000 gift from the Friends of the Louisville Free Public Library, bringing the community one step closer to fully meeting the match.

“This campaign has shown the power of partnership,” said Chandra Gordon, executive director of the Library Foundation. “When the public and private sectors work together, our libraries are stronger. With every gift matched dollar for dollar, we hope the community will step in now and help us fully fund this effort and put every available dollar to work for readers.”

Leaders said the progress being celebrated is made possible by Metro’s Million Dollar Match and urged the community to help close the remaining gap.

“Metro’s Million Dollar Match shows what’s possible when the City, the Library, and the community come together,” said Congressman Morgan McGarvey. “Thanks to this partnership and generous community support, wait times for books are already coming down and more Louisvillians can access this vital public resource. This is smart, targeted investment with real, measurable impact, and I’m grateful to our community partners for their commitment to lifelong learning.”

“I’m excited to share in today’s announcement of funds raised towards the $1 million public private partnership. We’re close to reaching the goal to expand the library’s electronic collection, which will greatly benefit our community. I encourage everyone to consider joining the Million Dollar March,” said District 4Councilman Ken Herndon.

To learn more or support the campaign, visit LouisvilleReads.org.

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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.