Dear Neighbor,

We hope you and your family are well during this trying time. We are proud to be part of the resilient community of Portage. It is that spirit of resiliency that has strengthened YOUR library’s commitment to raising our community up. The pandemic’s effects continue to increase the need for social services, educational and career resources, and reliable internet, all of which your library provides on a day-to-day basis. This summer over 1,000 grab & go lunches and snacks were served to local children during the gap in access to school meals, a 91% increase from 2019.

During the shutdown, we assisted patrons with job applications, access to digital books and databases, and had virtual story times. When it was safe, we started curbside pickup and were determined to get new books back into hands, educational materials to families with school-aged children, and to foster safe social interaction. When the library building reopened on June 30, we heard stories of the impact of our closure. As one patron put it: “You are essential to me. Thank you for being open. I was getting desperate.”

We understand how difficult this year has been on our local families and businesses. It is for that reason that we make this appeal with great sensitivity and understand that not everyone is in a position to support the library at this time.
Without our community’s support, reopening our building would not have been possible. We thank you for your previous donations. Each year almost half of our budget comes from fundraising. Can we count on you to make a gift today? Your gift will ensure that the library continues to provide the critical services the community needs most. For 93 years,your library has played a critical role in the collective heart of our community. Together, let’s keep it beating strong.
Sincerely,
Denovie McCabe, Board President
Kaytlin Sumner, Library Director

This year you can support the library by donating online here or by mailing us at: Portage Public Library, 704 Main Street, Portage, PA 15946. Thank you so much!