Library Foundation Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2025 Update

Dear Friends of the Library,

As we wrap up another busy and rewarding season, the Library Foundation is excited to share updates on our recent fundraising activities—all made possible by your enthusiasm and support! Every dollar raised goes directly toward future library programming that inspires learning, creativity, and connection for all ages.

Summer Success at the Farmers Market

Our Gently-Used Book Sales at the Lombard Farmers Market were a hit all summer long! From June through September, library lovers stopped by our table to browse great reads, discover hidden gems, and help fund new programs. Thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and shopped with us!

Dine Out Days Keep Giving Back

Since our last newsletter, we’ve hosted four more successful Dine Out Days, where Lombard residents enjoyed delicious meals while supporting the library.

A heartfelt thank-you to our restaurant partners:

• Alter Brewing – September 8

• Gia Mia – October 20

• P.F. Chang’s – October 28

• Rosemary And Jeans - November 6

These partnerships make a real difference, and we’re thrilled to keep the momentum going!

Holiday Fundraiser: Hokusai-Inspired Gifts

We’re closing out the year with something special—our Hokusai-themed holiday merchandise! This exclusive line features beautifully designed mugs, calendars, tote bags, and stationery that make perfect stocking stuffers or thoughtful gifts for book lovers and art fans alike.

Proceeds from every purchase go straight to supporting future library programming—so you can give a gift that gives back to the whole community.

Shop and learn more at helenplumlibraryfoundation.org.

New Program: Coffee on Us!

We’re thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership that will keep our community warm and connected all year long!

Beginning in November, several local coffee shops have generously donated coffee to the library—so patrons can enjoy a cup for free while reading, studying, or attending programs.

The Coffee on Us initiative is another way local businesses and neighbors are coming together to make the library a welcoming gathering space for all. The following local coffee shops have already signed up include:  

• Starbucks - 201 W Roosevelt

• Tous Les Jours - 2820 S Highland Ave 

• Qahwah House - 406 E Roosevelt

Please show your appreciation by visiting them next time you’re in the neighborhood. As more local businesses join, we’ll announce them on our website and social media pages!

Call for Volunteers: Join the Foundation Team in 2026!

Looking ahead to 2026, we’re inviting new and returning volunteers to help us continue supporting the library’s mission of inspiring curiosity and building community. Volunteers are essential to our success—from helping at fundraising events to promoting library programs and connecting with local partners.

If you’re passionate about libraries, community engagement, or simply lending a hand where it matters most, we’d love to have you join our team!

Students looking for volunteer hours to fulfill graduation requirements or round out their college application profiles are particularly encouraged to explore the opportunity to donate their time and energy with us.

Contact us at info@thehplf.org to learn about 2026 volunteer opportunities, dates, and events where you can make a difference.

Thank you for being part of our library’s story and helping us keep its next chapter bright. Your generosity continues to strengthen the programs, resources, and connections that make our library the heart of the community.

Warm regards, 

The Helen Plum Library Foundation