The Brooklyn Public Library is about to take advantage of the same innovative fundraising feature that helped raise millions for Haitian earthquake victims.
As part of the cash-strapped book barn’s second annual “Support Our Shelves” campaign, the library will now accept tax-deductible donations via text messages.
Just text the word “books” to 50555, and the library will receive a $10 donation, which will show up on your next cellphone bill. The Brooklyn Public Library is the first system to accept donations in this manner.
“It should make a difference on two fronts,” said Jason Carey, a library spokesman. “It’s a new way to get people involved who might not have gotten involved before. Plus, it allows us to keep communicating with people if they opt in.”
The goal, of course, is to raise big money for a library system that is the nation’s fifth busiest, yet also in dire need to cash.
Last year, the “Support our Shelves” drive raised $315,000, which was used to purchase 27,617 books, DVDs and CDs, the library said in a statement. This year, the goal is to raise $500,000.
Once the money is raised, it’ll be spent by an entirely new administration. Current Executive Director Dionne Mack-Harvin, who assumed the top job in 2007, announced that she’s resigning, effective June 30.
Donate $10 by texting “books” to 50555 or other amounts by visiting www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org.
