EveryLibrary Packs a Powerful Punch with Announcement of New $3 Fundraising Campaign
By Brynnan Smith
With the looming threat of federal funding being reduced—or eliminated altogether—many public libraries fear for their future. However, EveryLibrary aims to ease those concerns with its new fundraising initiative.
“EveryLibrary’s unique role as the national political action committee for libraries was vitally important in the New Orleans Library campaign,” says Dixon Stetler, Co-Chair of Yes for NOLA Libraries. Yes for NOLA Libraries advocated for a public library funding proposition. “They provided advice, support, and guidance at critical points in the campaign. We would not have been successful in moving forward together without EveryLibrary’s partnership,” Stetler added.
Founded by longtime library trustee John Chrastka, EveryLibrary is a nonpartisan, pro-library organization dedicated to sustaining libraries and preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century. The organization has supported libraries through advocacy for pro-library legislation, grassroots organizing, pro bono consulting, and, most recently, its $3 campaign.
The $3 campaign asks the public to donate just $3 a month to help protect libraries across the nation. EveryLibrary calculates that for every dollar raised, it can generate $1,600 in stable funding for libraries. This means that a $3 monthly donation can help secure nearly $60,000 in annual library funding. These funds are critical for libraries preparing to combat widespread book bans and the legal battles required to fight them.
In 2024 alone, more than 10,000 books were banned across the country. This list includes works ranging from dystopian novels like The Handmaid’s Tale to historical fiction addressing racial issues, such as The Color Purple. The current presidential administration’s aggressive stance on public libraries has made organizations like EveryLibrary more essential than ever in the fight to protect access to books and preserve historical literature.
Public libraries often serve as the only source of free books and essential resources within a community. When they come under attack, the impact extends far beyond bookshelves—diminishing educational opportunities, information access, and vital community services. This reality drives EveryLibrary’s mission and inspired the creation of the $3 campaign, making it easier for the public to take action. The initiative will help EveryLibrary continue its work to “preserve, protect, and extend everyone’s right to use libraries.”
To support EveryLibrary’s mission to build the most powerful campaign for libraries and the right to read, visit everylibrary.org/3dollars.
