STE. GENEVIEVE – This time last year, Ste. Genevieve County Library was actively engaged in outreach efforts for Proposition L. While the measure ultimately did not pass, the experience reinforced both the community’s support for the library and the ongoing challenges of funding expanded services.
“We are incredibly grateful to be supported by property tax dollars,” said Library Director Shawn Long. “Those funds allow us to keep our doors open and continue providing essential library services to our community. However, they only cover our basic operations. They don’t stretch far enough to support new programs, enhanced services, or special initiatives our community deserves.”
Following the failure of Prop L, the library has had to adapt quickly and thoughtfully, placing a renewed emphasis on fundraising to bridge the gap. Donations now play a critical role in ensuring the library can go beyond the basics and continue to grow.
“Fundraising allows us to take what we already do and make it better,” Long added. “If we can raise funds to support a program like Summer Reading, it frees up limited tax dollars to improve other services, expand offerings, or reach more people in our community.”
This year, all funds raised during Library Giving Day will directly support the library’s Summer Reading Program. The library spends an average of $5 per participant on materials, meaning every dollar donated has a direct and meaningful impact. With a goal of $2,000, the library aims to provide a high-quality, engaging experience for local families.
“This year’s theme is Unearth a Story, and we’re excited to partner with the Ste. Genevieve Museum to bring hands-on dinosaur programming to our community,” Long said. “These types of experiences create lasting memories for kids, but they also come with real costs—materials, staffing, and coordination. That’s why community support is so important.”
The campaign is being hosted by the Friends of the Ste. Genevieve County Library through the Givebutter platform, offering an easy and flexible way to give.
“Community members can donate any amount and even choose to make recurring contributions,” Long said. “Our Friends group is essential to our fundraising success, and we are incredibly thankful for their continued support of our library.”
Donations can be made through April 3rd by visiting:
https://givebutter.com/2026-library-giving-day-javkqv
or through the library’s Facebook page at:
www.facebook.com/SGCLibrary
“Every gift, no matter the size, helps us continue serving our community and building a stronger future for our library,” Long said.