What is the Los Altos Library Endowment?

The Los Altos Library Endowment's - LALE's - origins reflect the strong desire of our community to maintain a library that meets the needs of everyone.

A major funding campaign was conducted in the mid-1990's by the Vision 21 Committee with the support of the Friends of the Library of Los Altos and Community. The campaign's aim was to improve the Los Altos Library's balance between traditional literature and timely scientific, medical, and technological materials.

The success of that campaign, augmented by a generous gift from the Friends of the Library, provided initial endowment capital. Today LALE promotes the library's long-term well being in the ever-evolving world of library needs and priorities.

Our primary commitment has been to sustain the added support for the library's Science and Technology resources begun by the Vision 21 campaign. Thanks to LALE, the level of additional funding for acquisitions and maintenance in this area has remained unchanged (at $21,000/yr) for over a decade.

The mission of LALE is to help sustain and increase financial support for the library's services, collections, equipment, facilities, and programs. The endowment supplements public funding and complements the Friends of the Library in their fundraising activities. While investment income is expected to add to principal over time, it is community gifts from individuals, families, and groups to LALE that will accelerate growth and help ensure that the library flourishes. No salaries are paid to LALE personnel.

Those interested in the future of the Los Altos Library and who want to learn more about the ways significant gifts and bequests to LALE will enhance the economic well-being of our library in the years to come are invited to use the Contact Information on this website.