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Your Story Lives On: Create a Library Legacy

Prologue

You Can Help Write the Library's Next Chapter

Do you remember your first library card, that first official ID in your wallet? Think back to escaping the summer heat to the cool sanctuary of the library. Or maybe it was storytime with your children, and leaving the library with stacks of books in your arms.

You can help future generations create their own library memories by making a gift to the Lawrence Public Library through your will or estate plan. Your gift supports early literacy; free access to books, computers, and digital resources; community spaces for connecting; and so much more.

Your legacy gift costs you nothing new. And every gift, large or small, makes a lasting difference to everyone in Lawrence.

"LPL has been a constant in my life in Lawrence for 40+ years. From community events and resources to speakers and art exhibits, there is always something great happening. I love the library!"

Chapter 1

Planned Giving: What It Is and Why It Matters

Planned giving is a powerful way to ensure Lawrence Public Library continues to inspire and serve future generations. You don't have to be wealthy to create a legacy; every gift, large or small, helps keep the library a place of learning, connection, and wonder for future generations.

Leaving a gift to your public library is easy. It can be as simple as adding a sentence to your will, updating a beneficiary form, or leaving instructions to your family in a legacy letter.

You get to decide how your gift will be used: providing books for children, improving technology, preserving local history, or supporting the library's evolving needs. And of course, you can change your plans at any time.

Making the decision to include the library in your estate plan is your way of ensuring that reading, learning, and creativity are forever priorities in Lawrence.

Sample Bequest Language
"I give to the Lawrence Public Library Friends & Foundation, a Kansas non-profit corporation, 707 Vermont Street, Lawrence KS 66044, the amount of $___ or ___% of my estate for general purposes (or state a restricted purpose.)"

Chapter 2

Choose a Gift That Speaks to You

Your legacy gift to Lawrence Public Library supports reading, learning, and community for everyone in Lawrence. Managed safely by the Douglas County Community Foundation, these essential dollars supplement public funding and keep the library thriving for future generations.

Unrestricted Gifts
Support the library's emerging priorities and greatest needs. Unrestricted gifts provide the flexibility to respond to new opportunities and expand innovative programs.

Named Funds
Create a fund named for yourself, your family, or loved one. You can designate it for unrestricted use or for specific library programs and services.

Literacy Programs
Bring acclaimed authors to Lawrence, supplement collections, and support events like Summer Reading.

Youth Services
Inspire curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love of learning in children and teens through books, programs, and welcoming spaces designed just for them.

Technology
Ensure that the library can continue providing computers, creative spaces, and digital access to inspire lifelong learning, innovation, and connection for generations to come.

Have another idea? Let's talk! We want to get this just right for you.

"I love everything about Lawrence Public Library. It's tied so closely not just with my childhood, but to my entire family. I will love it forever!"

Chapter 3

Creating Your Legacy is Easier Than You Think

Creating your library legacy does not have to be complicated. When you include Lawrence Public Library in your estate plans, you help keep knowledge, stories, and discovery alive for everyone in our community. Your gift will touch lives and spark imaginations for generations.

Make sure you have an up-to-date will or living trust that reflects your wish to leave a gift to Lawrence Public Library.
Think beyond cash. You can give stocks, real estate, insurance policies, and personal property.
Make the library a beneficiary of your life insurance, pension plan, IRA, or donor-advised fund.
In addition to your will and legal documents, consider writing a legacy letter to your loved ones sharing your wish to include the library in your estate plan.
When you've included the library in your estate plan, we'd love to hear from you. It helps ensure your wishes are honored and gives us a chance to say thank you.

Please be sure to consult your financial advisor for assistance regarding what kind of gift is best for you and your family.

"Lawrence Public Library is a welcoming place for all people. It makes me smile just to open the door."

Chapter 4

Celebrate Your Library Story: Join Our Legacy Circle

With a planned gift, you become part of the Legacy Circle, a special group of donors who believe in the power of libraries. As a member, you'll be invited to special events, honored in our publications (if you wish), and given opportunities to share your own library story. Most of all, you'll have our community's lasting gratitude for securing the library's future.

"Our family grew up at Lawrence Public Library. Now I'm helping to ensure it's here for the next child."

Epilogue

The Next Chapter is Yours to Write

"Leaving a legacy gift to the library will improve the life of everyone in this community."

Ready to start creating your library legacy? Let's talk! We are happy to answer your questions and share any information you need to create your library legacy.

Not quite ready? We understand. Planning a legacy gift is a personal journey. Let us know you're interested, and we'll keep you informed and engaged as you explore this important decision.

Email: FriendsFoundation (at) LPLKS.org or call 785-843-3833

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