Purpose
At the center of a great university, there must stand a great library. The Penn State University Libraries mission is to inspire intellectual discovery and learning, offer robust information resources and academic collaborations in teaching and research, and connect the Penn State community and residents of Pennsylvania to the world of knowledge and new ideas. Nurturing a great library takes the efforts of committed and capable volunteers. Penn State is no exception, and has established the Libraries Development Board for volunteer members to help support Penn State’s Libraries. Libraries Development Board membership brings with it the commitment to be actively involved, including attending board meetings, leveraging member skills and interests to support development and recruitment activities, and making a meaningful personal financial commitment.
Commitment of Libraries Development Board Members
Development support can take many forms, and no single list of activities captures how every board member will assist the Libraries. In consultation with the dean, board chair, and development director, board members will provide needed support that complements their individual skills and interests, such as:
- Assisting development officers as they cultivate and solicit major-gift prospects;
- Sharing their experience and expertise to support the fundraising mission of the Libraries (in marketing, communications, financial planning, stewardships, etc.);
- Encouraging alumni to become more deeply involved with the Libraries;
Serving as ambassadors for the University Libraries during functions and in dealings with alumni and friends;
- Participating in board activities beyond the annual meetings, such as task forces and member-sponsored events;
- Hosting events, planned in concert with Libraries development staff, to further the “friendraising” and fundraising missions of the Libraries;
- Mentoring new board members as they begin their involvement with the Libraries.
Sue Paterno
Vice-chair
Bob Darrah
Director of Development & Alumni Relations
Email Bob