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:
​
-
Literacy and Library Resources
-
Digital Tools and Technology
-
Areas of Greatest Need
"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.
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.
"The best part about volunteering for me was learning more about essential 'adulting' skills like interviews and resume writing."
​
- Teen Council Member
"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
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.
​
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 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.
​
JobNow
Get access to tools that will help you build your resume, prepare for your next interview and find the right career for you.
​
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.