Over 25 Years of Redwood City Public Library Support
For 25+ years, RCLF has supported Redwood City Public Library initiatives that keep our community learning and keep our library at the cutting edge of public service. Libraries are far greater than the sum of their programming. They cultivate literacy, life-long learning, and community connections. They are a cornerstone of democracy, providing all people with free resources that promote innovation, equity, critical thinking, and respect for differing viewpoints.
In spite of this noble mission, libraries around the country are facing debilitating funding cuts, protests by hate groups, and even book bans. To ensure that doesn’t happen here, it’s more important than ever that we all support Redwood City Public Library.
Our Mission
Our mission is to support Redwood City Public Library in cultivating literacy, life-long learning, and community connections.
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Our Vision
We envision a community where everyone has access to information, knowledge and technology.
The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization 501(c)(3) established in 1998 and governed by a volunteer board of directors. A professional staff raises and administers gifts and ensures the effectiveness of funded programs.
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Working with individual, foundation, and corporate donors, the Foundation acts as the “fundraising arm” of the library. We solicit donations to support specific services, improvements, collections and programs. We work with the Library to identify the best way donors’ gifts can enhance the Library and meet the ever changing needs of the community.
Summer Learning Challenge
The Summer Learning Challenge (SLC) is designed to inspire a love of reading, reinforce gains students make during the school year, and prevent learning loss over the summer. RCPL visits all Redwood City School District and Redwood Shores schools, and local high schools to hand out books and sign children up for SLC. Children also receive a free book when they complete the SLC.
The books for this program were previously funded through Measure K. The Library Foundation is funding a majority of this program for Summer 2025.
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Learn more about the urgent need and how you can help HERE!
Family Game Night 4/1/25
Library Fundraiser was a huge success
Thanks to you!
SAVE THE DATE for the next
Family Game Night at Redwood Shores
on 11/12/25
Bridging the Digital Divide
As the pandemic showed us, many people do not have reliable internet access at home for homework, research and education. In the library building, anyone can use the library's internet, but for those who need reliable internet at home or away from the library, library card holders can check out a "hotspot," a personal Wi-Fi device, for use anywhere for a 3-week interval (just like books!).
Laptops are available for check out in the library which allows patrons to move anywhere in the library for social distancing (rather than the old desktop computers, although they are also still available).
RCLF provides the funding to support the purchase, maintenance and cell phone contracts for the personal Wi-Fi devices and educational laptops in use at our libraries, including in the children's section and for LEGO Robotics League.
Makerspace in the Library
Bolstered by continuous support from the Library Foundation, this innovative and creative learning space offers free access to high-tech tools and handcraft equipment, including 3D printers, a laser cutter, sewing and embroidery machines, a Cricut machine and more.
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The space buzzes with ongoing activities tailored for various age groups and interests including Crafty Wednesdays (grades K-3), Art Salon (all ages), and LEGO Robotics League (grades 3-8).
Explore upcoming programs and activities here.
Share Your Stories
Libraries are full of stories. What's your library story?
Share your Redwood City Public Library Story and help the Redwood City Library Foundation fund more library initiatives!
We encourage you to Share Your Story about how the Redwood City Public Library has made a difference to you, whether that's helping you get a job, helping you learn a new skill, helping your child with reading -- whatever it is that's made a difference.
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Go HERE to share your library story.
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Check out more stories at #sharelibstories
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Thank You to our Major Donors
