Campaign Results
Library Giving Day 2023 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, over 530 library organizations from 46 US States, 6 Canadian Provinces, and most recently, Nairobi, Kenya, have joined the #LibraryGivingDay movement, and more than $6,500,000 in fundraising revenue has been reported.
The 2023 Library Giving Day was celebrated on April 4, 2023, over three years after the pandemic’s first global impact.
While much of our daily lives have returned to normal, public libraries continue to face unique challenges.
The resiliency of libraries and their commitment to serving their communities has been inspiring, and the 2023 Library Giving Day campaign results reflect that.
For the 2023 Library Giving Day campaign, 94 organizations submitted fundraising results, with the majority reporting positive fundraising revenue.
What was the total dollar amount raised?
Of the organizations that reported fundraising revenue, the total projected fundraising revenue goal was $1,443,866.
The actual amount raised was $1,548,856 – approximately 7% higher than projected.
Of the organizations who submitted Library Giving Day campaign results, 51% reached their fundraising goals.
How did 2023 compare to prior years?
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%. However, reported revenue for 2023 declined year-over-year by 4.22% to $1,548,856.
How many people donated?
The total number of donations increased from 5,002 in 2019 to 9,516 in 2020 – or 90.2%, increased again to 13,889 in 2021, decreased to 12,030 in 2022, then increased in 2023 to 12,171. The average gift for 2023 was $127.
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 2023 Library Giving Day.
6How many organizations were able to secure a matching grant?
23 organizations – 24% who submitted results – were able to secure a matching grant. However, 22 or 96% achieved or surpassed the match goal. Of the 94 total organizations who responded to requests for 2023 Library Giving Day results, 71 or 72% did not have a matching grant.
Thank you to all organizations that participated in the 2023 Library Giving Day!
The number of organizations that submitted fundraising results in 2023 was up compared to 2022. However, total fundraising revenue from those that submitted declined. Note: All results submitted to Library Giving Day organizers are voluntarily submitted and do not necessarily represent all the organizations that participated in Library Giving Day fundraising initiatives.
Library Giving Day is an excellent opportunity to engage your community and raise much-needed funds.
To make the most of your Library Giving Day fundraising campaigns, be sure to 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!
