With matching donor in the wings,
University Libraries resumes drive

With an anonymous donor now promising a penny-for-penny match, University Libraries is jump-starting its Penny Challenge campaign in an effort to raise funds for a permanent endowment supporting library collections.

Donation receptacles are reappearing in Founders Memorial Library, Holmes Student Center and departments across campus. Donors aren't limited to contributing pennies; dimes, quarters, bills and even checks also are welcome.

Campaign volunteers will be out in force collecting donations during the Oct. 29 NIU-Ball State football game at Huskie Stadium. The initial drive held last spring sought to raise $20,000 to mark the acquisition of University Libraries' 2 millionth book.

“We made a good start but need one more final push,” said Mary Munroe, associate dean for collections and technical services at University Libraries. “The good news is that we have recently received a generous challenge grant from a donor who will match up to $10,000. We hope that all of these efforts will bear fruit, and that we will soon have the funds to create a permanent library endowment to enhance future collections.”

About $7,500 needs to be raised to take full advantage of the challenge grant and meet the fundraising goal. See www.niulib.niu.edu for more information on the library's penny drive, including a list of locations where people can donate.

10-24-05