Bellevue Library Foundation Kicks Off Matching Fund Drive as December Events Roll On

Several special activities are planned for December at the Bellevue Public Library, including fundraisers, holiday programs, a food drive, and a holiday lights collection.

The Bellevue Library Foundation (BLF) is participating in the 2025 Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) Matching Charitable Program that began on Dec. 2. This is the major fundraising activity for the Library Foundation, which supports the library’s programs and services that benefit all ages.

Under the Match Program, MCF will provide matching funds for NEW contributions made to existing and newly created charitable funds up to $5,000 per individual donor, and subject to a maximum of $100,000 for all MCF funds. This campaign runs through Jan. 5, 2026. (Donations must be dated and received between these dates to qualify for the Match Program.)

In the past year, the Foundation has purchased additional furniture for the library’s new building, supported the Adult, Children’s, and Teen annual library programs, provided matching funds in support of a grant for the makerspace, is funding four additional computers for the computer lab, and continues to support new technologies for the library. In the coming year, the Foundation is looking at providing permanent picnic tables and a sunshade to the concrete patio area of the library.

Donations can be made online, in-person at the library, or by mail. Online donations can be
made to the Bellevue Library Foundation Fund from the MCF website: https://midlandscommunity.org/donate-now/

The Bellevue Public Library is also  inviting the community to warm up this winter while supporting a great cause with a special Snuggle Up and Read Raffle Basket fundraiser.

The raffle basket features a beautiful handmade quilt, a curated assortment of snacks, soothing teas, and a set of cozy mugs, perfect for winter reading and relaxation. Proceeds from the raffle will directly benefit the library’s programs, collections, and services for the community.

Raffle ticket sales began Monday, December 22, and will continue through the end of the day on Friday, January 30. The winning ticket will be drawn on Monday, February 2. A donation of $1 is asked for each ticket. Participants do not need to be present at the drawing to win.

Also, dragons and blob figurines made with the library’s 3D printer continue to be available for $10.00 and $5.00 donations. Monies raised from this effort are being directed toward the purchase of a new, multi-colored filament 3D printer.

The Friends of the Bellevue Public Library continue to offer take home kits using pages from recycled books. Kits include an angel, tree ornaments, a woven basket, and a rolled pages container. Each is available for a donation of $5.00

During December, the library will also serve as a collection point for two community drives. The public can drop off unexpired food items and hygiene articles as part of a drive for the Bellevue Food Pantry. A list of needs for December is available at the library.

In addition, the library is again partnering with Scouts BSA Troop 231B & 231G to collect unwanted or broken string lights. Persons wishing to drop off these lights can put them in a bin in the vestibule of the library until Jan. 15, 2026, for pick up by the Scouts Troop

Help support your library through the winter fundraisers, contribute to community drives, and enjoy fun holiday events! Tis the season!