Campaign Results

Library Giving Day 2022 Campaign Results

Through the hard work and vision of the Seattle Public Library Foundation and Carl Bloom Associates, what started as an idea has become an exciting and successful day of nationwide library support. But the real success is due to the many library organizations across North America that responded to the opportunity, took advantage of the positive momentum, and launched their own #LibraryGivingDay campaigns and celebrations.

The information below was compiled from results submitted voluntarily to the Library Giving Day organizers.

Background

Since the first Library Giving Day in 2019, 450 library organizations from 46 US States and 5 Canadian Provinces have joined the #LibraryGivingDay movement, and a total of more than $5,000,000 in fundraising revenue has been reported.

The 2022 Library Giving Day was celebrated on April 6, 2022, over two years since the wide-scale impact of the pandemic was first felt around the world.

While we all have tried to find a sense of normalcy during these uncertain times, public libraries, in particular, have faced unique challenges due to prolonged branch closures.

Yet, the resiliency of libraries to continue serving their communities has been inspiring, and the 2022 Library Giving Day campaign results reflect that.

For the 2022 Library Giving Day campaign, 88 organizations submitted fundraising results, and 87 reported positive fundraising revenue.

What was the total dollar amount raised?

Of the 87 organizations that reported fundraising revenue, the total projected fundraising revenue goal was $1,433,936.

The actual amount raised was $1,637,146 – 14% higher than projected.

Of the organizations who submitted Library Giving Day campaign results, 54% reached their fundraising goals.

How did 2022 compare to 2021, 2020, and 2019?

Overall fundraising revenue has increased year-over-year from $741,456 in 2019 to $1,108,512 in 2020 – or 49.5%, increased to $1,561,882 in 2021 – or 41%, and increased to $1,637,146 in 2022 – or 4.8%.

How many people donated?

The total number of donations increased from 5,002 in 2019 to 9,516 in 2020 – or 90.2%, increased to 13,812 in 2021 – or 45%, and decreased to 12,168 in 2022 – or an 11.9% decrease. The average gift for 2022 was $134.

How did organizations celebrate the 2022 Library Giving Day?

Organizations reported conducting multifaceted fundraising campaigns with a variety of fundraising initiatives and activities.

Below is a breakdown of the different channels, methods, and marketing materials organizations used to promote 2022 Library Giving Day.

How many organizations were able to secure a matching grant?

25 organizations – 29% who submitted results – were able to secure a matching grant. However, 19 or 76% achieved or surpassed the match goal. Of the 88 total organizations who responded to requests for 2022 Library Giving Day results, 63 or 72% did not have a matching grant.

Thank you to all organizations that participated in the 2022 Library Giving Day!

The number of organizations that submitted fundraising results in 2022 was down compared to 2021. However, total fundraising revenue from those that submitted increased significantly. The increase in reported income from a smaller reporting group points to more significant results from their fundraising efforts.

Library Giving Day is an excellent opportunity to engage your community and raise much-needed funds.

For 2023, download the free Toolkit and other resources, plan, utilize more fundraising channels, build upon what has worked in previous campaigns, find inspiration from others, engage your volunteers, and work on obtaining a matching grant.

Collectively, let’s continue to make a difference for public libraries everywhere!

Library Giving Day logo

Together, we can make it a success!