To stay open, the library needs community support.

To stay open, the library needs community support.

STAFF REPORT

SHARON, Pa. — The Community Library of the Shenango Valley has launched a campaign to raise $75,000 each year for three years.

“The campaign is necessary for the survival of our library,” said Jane Sham, secretary/treasurer of the library board of directors. “Although we are grateful for the continued assistance from the cities of Sharon and Hermitage, we cannot rely solely on government funding. The library must increasingly rely on private sources to continue its existence.”

In the first phase of the campaign, the library board has raised more than $30,000 from board members, concerned citizens and foundations. One existing pledge is a $5,000 challenge grant that must be matched by community contributions.

The next step is a mail campaign to raise pledged donations over a three-year period. This will allow the library to survive while pursuing national grants and a broader donor and volunteer base. In addition, the board will invite all libraries in the county to explore whether a countywide library system would enhance cost savings and revenue generation.

The Community Library of the Shenango Valley is a new nonprofit organization created in March 2007 when the city of Sharon could no longer afford to be the major contributor. The library provides materials, programs and technology free of charge to Hermitage and Sharon residents, and residents of nondonor communities pay a fee. Funding is provided by Hermitage, Sharon, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, an active Friend-of-the-Library group and individual donations.

“This library is not a city entity supported by tax dollars alone,” said Sham. “We hope that everyone in the valley who has been helped by a library will help to keep this one going.”

Contributions may be made by calling the library at (724) 981-4360.