Title
Phoenix Public Library Foundation and Raise the Stacks 2025 - Citywide
Description
This report provides the Community Services and Education Subcommittee with an overview of the Phoenix Public Library Foundation (PPLF) and the annual Raise the Stacks Fundraiser supporting Phoenix Public Library (PPL) programs and services.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
Founded in 1997, the PPLF was initially conceived to oversee the capital campaign raising funds for Burton Barr Central Library and quickly evolved to champion a broader library mission. Dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, families, seniors, and new readers, the Foundation bridges the gap between traditional tax-based funding and community needs. Funding is secured for vital library programs and services through strategic partnerships and proactive private fundraising efforts. The PPLF prioritizes four areas of focus:
- Library programs that improve early literacy and reading skills for children and families.
- Access to educational resources for those seeking to achieve high school, college, and career goals.
- Meaningful library spaces that are learning, collaborative, and creative environments.
- Supporting Phoenix Public Libraries as premier cultural destinations and community venues.
In recent years, the PPLF and its fundraising efforts have supported PPL's Summer Reading Program, Storywalk installations, early literacy interactive installations at multiple PPL locations, College Depot's GRIT and FAFSA application completion programs, 3D printing and computer coding as part of makers space programming, and more.
One significant effort that raises both funds and awareness for these critical library programs is the annual "Raise the Stacks." More than just a fundraiser, this event held for 40 years, offers attendees a unique after-hours Burton Barr Central Library experience. This year's event will recognize PPL's 500th Kindergarten Bootcamp series. Kindergarten Bootcamp is a signature early literacy program that prepares soon-to-be-kindergartners and their families with school readiness skills that can be practiced in the home. This year's "Raise the Stacks" kicks off with an online silent auction which is open to all community members and concludes with a ticketed in-person event where guests will be able to mingle on Burton Barr Central Library's iconic 5th floor. Funds are raised through sponsorships, ticket sales, silent and live auctions, raffles, and direct donations with all proceeds supporting PPL programs and services.
This year's event officially opens with the online auction on November 7, 2025 and the in-person "Raise the Stacks" event is scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. To learn more and purchase a ticket, visit raisethestacks.org.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by City Manager Jeffrey Barton and the Library Department.