The Community Foundation of Central Georgia began managing the endowment funds of Middle Georgia Regional library in June 2013. Entities like libraries are supported by local, state, and federal government funding so they are often the first to experience a decrease in funding and an increase in demand during times of economic crisis.

“Having funds that the library can depend on to supplement our funding allows us to maintain the same high level of service we provide, even in hard times. It also gives us an opportunity to add services in times of greater prosperity,” said Thomas Jones.

“Historically, libraries used books and other printed works to provide information. In the Digital Age, libraries like ours also use technology to provide information to a new generation of information gatherers—those who are a part of what is referred to as the ‘digital divide.’ In times of high unemployment, homelessness and other adverse situations, technological services are more important than ever before. Libraries like ours provide internet access and online resources to those who may have no other way of obtaining it. What’s more, library professionals train and guide citizens from every walk of life to use these new resources.”