HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 168-05City of Palo Alto
City Manager's Report
TO: HONORABLE CITY COUNCIL
DEPARTMENT: LIBRARY
FROM: CITY MANAGER CMR: 168:05
DATE: MARCH 14,2005
SUBJECT: LIBRARY GIFT FUND
This is an informational report and no Council action is required.
DISCUSSION
The Library Department has established a special fund to receive donations from customers who
want to make a contribution directly to the Library. This occasionally happens when customers
register for new cards, renew library cards sign or pay fines. This method of giving is an
alternative to donating to the Friends of the Palo Alto Library (FOPAL) and Palo Alto Library
Foundation (PALF). In general, FOP AL provides annual grants for selected programs and
services; P ALF raises money for large projects. The Library Gift Fund, on the other hand, is for
donors who prefer to give directly to the Library, and dollar amounts are small. Contributions to
the Library Gift Fund can be readily used by the Library to meet small-scale, special needs
beyond the limits of public funds.
Cash and checks (made payable to the Palo Alto City Library) can be deposited by customers
directly into secured plastic boxes at the check-out desks. Upon request, a gift receipt is
provided by staff, with a recommendation that donors consult with their own financial advisors
about tax-deductible gifts. Contributions to the gift fund are tracked separately, and transmitted
to the Administrative Services Division together with other cash receipts (fines, fees, etc.), on a
daily basis. Donations will stay within the Library and can only be spent on Library expenses.
Sample expenditures might include books for the collection, signs, and supplies for displays and
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children's programs. Donations do not become part ofthe City's General Fund. As funds
accumulate over time, the Library will ask for a budget amendment ordinance and spend the
money appropriately. Library Director Paula Simpson may be contacted for questions or
concerns about this new program.
PREPARED BY:
P AULA SIMPSON \
LIBRARY DIRECTOR
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL: '-~doJ:)
EM Y HARRISON
ASSIST ANT CITY MANAGER
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