SALINA, Kan. — Fundraising efforts at the Salina Public Library are slow in 2025, with $27,396.57 raised toward a year-end $100,000 matching challenge, according to the most recent board packet.
The challenge requires the library to raise $100,000 in community donations by December 31 in order to receive an additional $100,000 in matching funds from private benefactors.
Why a matching challenge matters
Matching gifts are common in nonprofit fundraising because they:
• Double the impact of every donor dollar
• Encourage higher participation
• Allow libraries to fund programming outside the tax base
• Reduce pressure on operational budgets
If the full match is met, the library receives $200,000 total, providing a major boost for program expansions, materials, outreach, and long-term projects.
Jingle Bingo: Record Results
This year’s Jingle Bingo event — an annual fundraiser — sold out completely and generated $10,747, more than double last year’s total.
Fundraising dollars support non-mandated services such as:
• Expanded children’s programs
• Outreach events
• Technology upgrades
• Special collections and exhibits
These funds allow the library to grow without increasing reliance on property taxes.
The library will continue public updates on the challenge match progress through the end of December.
