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What We Fund

The Pierce County Library Foundation is dedicated to enhancing and furthering the work of the Pierce County Library System by investing in three strategic areas:

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  • Literacy and Library Resources

  • Digital Tools and Technology

  • Areas of Greatest Need

Storytime

"As a little girl, I visited the book mobile and fell in love. I've always loved books and they make our community better!"

Foundation Donor

Summer Reading Program

The Summer Reading Program is a free program that invites readers of all ages to explore diverse stories, connect through shared experiences, and celebrate the joy of reading. ​Last year, the library connected with 24,000+ readers of all ages, distributed 19,000 free books, and brought programming to 100+ community sites across the county. 

Outreach_Books on the Move Van_James Sales Elementary_011116_photo by Ingrid Barrentine_75
NARCAN.jfif

Peers in Libraries:
A Place for Every Mind

​The Peers in Libraries program at Parkland/Spanaway Library is a partnership with PeerWA, where a certified Peer Support Specialist creates a welcoming space where community members facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders connect with someone who has walked similar paths. By bringing social services directly into the trusted space of the library, we reach individuals who might need resources that the Library is unable to provide. Our commitment to harm reduction includes an accessible Narcan vending machine that has been actively utilized by community members, providing this life-saving medication without barriers.

Teen Volunteer League

Teen Council & Teen Volunteer League participants design library displays, create social media content, organize conventions, develop STEAM programs, revitalize community gardens, and help shape future library spaces—all made possible through generous support from donors like you who believe in empowering the next generation of leaders. 

A group of teens poses in front of a black curtain.
"The best part about volunteering for me was learning more about essential 'adulting' skills like interviews and resume writing."
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- Teen Council Member
Three teenages stand around a sign that says Teen Con West 2024 and has decorations of mountains, forests, water and a sasquatch
"It wasn't just about getting service hours - everyone there was committed to making their library and community better."
 
-Teen Volunteer League member

The Library on Wheels

Two people with library carts stand next to a blue van in front of an elementary school.
On the Road
 
With over 100 community site visits and over 6,000 materials given away, the library comes directly to you at locations such as: Nourish Food Bank pop-ups, Pierce County Housing Alliance apartment complexes, and various community centers throughout Tacoma and beyond.
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Woman sits in a chair and reads.
At Home

 

The Library is committed to ensuring everyone has access to library resources, including those unable to visit our buildings. Outreach staff visit individuals who require in-home care, long-term assisted living, and retirement communities, providing personalized service that helps reduce isolation while delivering books, audiobooks, and other materials tailored to individual interests.

At the Library
At School
 
The Books to Engage Every Student (BEEs) program brings the library directly to schools. Students can get their own library card and check out books right from their classroom. We're especially proud to support the growing partnerships with childcare facilities.
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A woman sits in an audience and holds her hands to her mouth, looking delighted.
In Your Community

 

In 2024 alone, Outreach Services connected with over 5,000 community members, many of whom might otherwise lack access to library resources. Join the Library at an upcoming community event or get in touch to learn more about bringing library services to your location. 

Career and Educational Resources

On the Phone
Universal Class

 

Library cardholders can access classes for free through Universal Class. This online service gives those of all ages the ability to learn new IT skills, build on existing knowledge and earn the credentials for a career in IT.

Job interview
JobNow
 
Get access to tools that will help you build your resume, prepare for your next interview and find the right career for you. 
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Two men in wheelchairs with suitcases on their laps talk to each other while smiling
Mango Languages

 

Learn over 70 world languages at your own pace, including English as a second language (ESL) tutorials in more than 20 languages and American Sign Language. 

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