Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Christine Weinreich, Executive Director of the Memphis Library Foundation, who shares some of the history for the nonprofit organization and highlights their mission and efforts to transform Memphis through knowledge and experiences by raising awareness and funds that directly support and enhance every branch of Memphis Public Libraries.
The Memphis Library Foundation was established in 1994 to raise funds to build the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. Since that time, the organization has continued working to meet the needs of all members of our community by stepping into the void with community programs, special collections and facility enhancements, and leveraging the power of private donations to help create a world-class, award-winning library system. Though libraries in Memphis are publicly funded through the City’s budget, this mostly covers basic operations such as building maintenance and staff salaries. Through private funding, Memphis Public Libraries are able to host innovative programs for Memphians of all ages, from DiscoverREAD Early Learning Centers to support school readiness; to Teen Innovation Centers that inspire young people to engage with arts and tech and imagine more for themselves as they grow up; to job and career resources, continuing education, health information centers, and arts and culture programs for adults.
During the interview, Christine talks about the many different programs offered and how the Memphis Library Foundation plays an important role in supporting them. She discusses their recently launched new organizational brand and slogan, “Imagine More,” and how that ties in with the transformation of libraries and the future ahead. She talks about how the community can get involved in supporting the Memphis Library Foundation and why that support is necessary and appreciated.
Visit www.memphislibraryfoundation.org to learn more.
