Private funds versus public funds — the ball is in the library's court

Abstract

Examines the question of whether private library funds — often acquired by libraries through fundraising efforts — threaten the allocation of local public funds. Reports interviews with US librarians and government officials selected by convenient sampling. It is clear that concerns exist despite earlier statistical studies giving no basis for concern. Discusses protection of funds by means of funding partnerships, certain safeguards in setting up library foundations, and appropriate library advocacy. Lesgislators indicate they are listening to libraries' needs. Suggests that librarians take the initiative in protecting funds.

Citation

Anne Craft, M. (1995), "Private funds versus public funds — the ball is in the library's court", The Bottom Line, Vol. 8 No. 4, pp. 5-9. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb025452