ALA Relief Fund Hits $300K

By Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 4/15/2006

The American Library Association's (ALA) Hurricane Katrina Library Relief Fund (www.ala.org/katrina) has raised more than $300,000 to help rebuild hundreds of libraries damaged or destroyed by hurricanes in the Gulf Coast region in 2005. Over 1500 ALA members, corporations, institutions, foundations, Friends groups, and individuals have contributed. Dozens of libraries around the country have signed up to adopt affected libraries that are still in need.

Meanwhile, the New Orleans Public Library (NOPL), inundated by offers of help—and by the well-meaning forwarding of messages seeking book donations—has issued a plea: hold the books! According to a recently posted FAQ, the library would prefer cash: “Monetary donations are the best way to help the library rebuild.” The library will accept books but asks donors to clear the gifts ahead of time (new books are best) and instead consider holding a book sale in their home city, which would save on shipping and allow NOPL to focus its resources. The library said that some donated books may be given to the Friends of NOPL, local schools, or needy families.

Meanwhile, Congressional tax negotiators are considering a provision that would provide an enhanced deduction for donations of books, aimed to encourage publishers and others to contribute inventory to libraries and other educational institutions.