We all know that public libraries are an essential community staple. From the 196-square-foot Norman Square Library in Norman, Arkansas to the 92-location New York Public Library system, public libraries inform, inspire, and engage.
City, county, and state taxes fund the very basic library necessities like salaries, books and other materials, office supplies, and utilities. Thanks to your generous donations, the Bozeman Public Library Foundation provides all the extras that make our Library extraordinary!
Nearly every program at your Library, ranging from the wide assortment of children’s programming to adult wellness classes, are funded by donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations. As we move into 2023, we are proud to support the following capital improvements and programs to foster learning and creativity and make Bozeman a better place to live.
BPL Forward
Since our Library opened in 2006, Bozeman has gained more than 20,000 new residents. As our community grows, an investment in our Library is crucial to fulfill our vital role.
Renovations to the Bozeman Public Library will be completed in 2023. We are excited to welcome you back to your Library with some new spaces including a “wet” lab with a full kitchen for cooking and art classes; tech lab with computers, 3D printer, and laser cutter; recording studio for podcast and music production; expanded quiet reading spaces; and additional community meeting rooms.
In 2023, the Foundation will also provide financial support for the initial planning of a Bozeman west-side branch library.
Together, these efforts will make your Library the epicenter of community culture while providing equitable access to Library resources for all our neighbors.
Youth & Early Learning
The Foundation funds early learning programs that support young children and their families and can plant the seed for lifelong learning.
Family Literacy Outreach: Through an innovative partnership with the Gallatin Valley Food Bank, this program provides families visiting the food bank with free, high-quality new children’s books that they can keep so they can start building their home libraries.
Summer Learning: When students return to school each fall, many will begin the school year behind where they were before the summer break. To combat this “summer slide”, Bozeman Public Library offers 11 weeks of hands-on opportunities to engage with reading as well as science, technology, engineering, art, and math. And through a partnership with HRDC, free meals are provided to all participants.
Early Literacy, Elementary STEAM, and Teen programs: Programs ranging from our bi-weekly Baby Storytime to our Teen Take & Make Kits serve thousands of Gallatin Valley youth each year. These programs provide important resources to parents and foster learning and creativity in our young community.
Equipment: Our Children’s Room is stocked with fun, innovative equipment to enrich the learning process. This year we’ll purchase a Light Laboratory and Mobile Magnet Wall that will provide enrichment and joy for years to come.
Healthy, Connected Community
Healthy, informed, and inspired citizens should not be limited based on income, age, or circumstances. Bozeman Public Library offers a range of programs to support our physical and mental health.
Wellness Programs: Yoga for All, Qigong, outdoor movement classes, strolling the Labyrinth, and nutrition and mental health-focused programs provide opportunities for participants to learn something new, master their technique, or simply take a break from the stressors of everyday life.
Arts & Culture Programs: While many consider libraries quiet, Bozeman Public Library has always welcomed conversation and activity. During the winter months, local musicians fill the second floor with sound to combat the winter blues with Acoustic Sundays. And in the summer, locals and visitors of all ages gather on our Library’s large front lawn to take in live music performances.
SymBozium: 93% of Americans identify a civility problem in the United States. Our award-winning SymBozium program encourages people to examine complex issues with an open mind and engage in respectful conversations.
Access for All
Each year, our outreach programming reaches thousands of Gallatin Valley residents who might not otherwise have access.
Bookmobile: The Bozeman Public Library Bookmobile regularly visits rural schools, playgrounds, senior living facilities, and neighborhoods. Just last month, the Bookmobile made 47 stops with 985 visitors. They also provided 24 programs from the bus with 366 total participants.
Hotspot Lending Program: Montana ranks last among U.S. states in combined scores of internet access, speed, and affordability adding another challenge to families trying to access school assignments, stay up to date on healthcare needs, and look for or secure a good job. To address this challenge, the Bozeman Public Library provides access to mobile internet hotspots and laptop computers available to anyone with a Library card.
Each and every one of these programs are offered entirely free, thanks to donations. THANK YOU for making the Bozeman Public Library’s impact on our community extraordinary!