WHO WE ARE
Our History
The Jefferson County Library Foundation (JCLF) was incorporated in 1966 under the trade name Jefferson County Public Library Trust and Endowment Association, and in 1984 the trade name was officially changed to Jefferson County Library Foundation (JCLF). JCLF’s early mission of raising money to supplement public funding of the library system has continued since its inception.
JCLF raises funds for early literacy programming for children and families; for technology enhancements; for community and adult programs, including the Library Summer Challenge and Hard Times Writers Workshop; and for capital improvements and innovative Library spaces, such as the Discover Together: Outdoor Adventure Spaces at Standley Lake Library and Belmar Library. JCLF helps support year-round programming that targets early literacy, technology access, cultural engagement, and capital improvements at Jefferson County Public Library.
In 1995, Vicki Kowan-Ford became the first Executive Director of the Foundation, and in 1996 the Library Trustees created a separate, four-person, Foundation Board of Directors.
Today, the Foundation continues the tradition and mission set by the early founders, along with a thirteen-person, volunteer Board of Directors and two Board Advisors. A professional staff and volunteer Friends organization, overseen by Executive Director Jo Schantz, raises and manages funds in partnership with Jefferson County Public Library.
Our Mission
The Jefferson County Library Foundation’s mission is to support and enrich the capabilities, resources and services of the Jefferson County Public Library through fundraising and advocacy efforts that benefit our diverse community.
Jefferson County Library Foundation (JCLF) provides critical support to Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL), expanding free programs and services to all Jefferson County residents.
Through public outreach, advocacy and fundraising, JCLF strengthens JCPL and promotes greater awareness of its valuable resources and services, helping JCPL ensure free and equal access to information and great literature to all Jeffco residents.
Jefferson County Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation.
Friends of Jefferson County Public Library
Friends of Jefferson County Public Library is a program of the Jefferson County Library Foundation (JCLF), a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting the programs of Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL) through advocacy and fundraising.
Friends cherish our Library, and we believe that JCPL is a valuable, essential and fundamental part of the community. Friends lend our voices, time and resources to ensure quality library services in Jefferson County, and lend our support to JCLF’s fundraising and advocacy efforts.
Learn more about Friends of Jefferson County Public Library and how you can help support your JCPL!