Foundations

Newton Public Library Foundation

On May 12, 2020, the Second Century Library Foundation became the Newton Public Library Foundation. A new fund was also established in the Foundation: the Newton Public Library Building Fund supported a new library, which opened April 1, 2024.

In addition to the NPL Building Fund, the Newton Public Library Foundation has four other funds:

  • Second Century Endowment Fund
  • Montee-Silverstein Fund
  • Helen E. Claassen Endowment Fund
  • Operating Fund

The Foundation’s Second Century Endowment Fund and Montee-Silverstein Fund provide grants for enhancements beyond those possible through Newton Public Library annual operating funds. The Helen E. Claassen Endowment Fund is designated for NPL capital improvements.

More than just books are needed at Newton Public Library to be a part of today’s information society. Audio/visual materials, digital resources, computer programs and 24/7 on-line access have joined the books and magazines to provide information and recreation to individuals. A gift to future generations through the Newton Public Library Foundation will make you a part of the legacy which will keep Newton Public Library an important informational and recreational access location for the community. Your donations help support purchases such as:

  • Library of Things items (metal detector, yard games, Instant Pot, and so much more)
  • Digital collections, including e-books, e-audiobooks, and digital magazines
  • Regular and Large Print books to keep our collection up-to-date

Send gifts or pledges to:  Newton Public Library Foundation, % Newton Public Library, 223 E. 7th, Newton, Kansas 67114, or donate online through the Central Kansas Community Foundation website.

Newton Public Library Foundation Advisory Board Members are:

  • Tami Carlgren, President
  • Ann Adrian, Treasurer
  • Libby Albers
  • Cathy Anderson
  • Dawn Franz
  • Reece Hiebert
  • Ashley Klein
  • Marissa Murphy
  • Cari Cusick, Secretary & Library Director

Call 316-283-2890 for more information.

Florence Bessmer

Miss Florence Bessmer established The Florence Bessmer Foundation in 1979. The Foundation provides for the housing and equipment for modern, educational and entertainment programs and uses for children, including furniture, shelving, books, materials, audiovisual and learning aids, as well as for facility enhancements. She established the fund because for most of her 100+ years she was actively and ardently interested in the welfare of children. The Florence Bessmer wing was completed in 1980 and serves as a meeting room for library and public functions. Florence Bessmer’s legacy will continue to be recognized in the new library building. Income from the Florence Bessmer Foundation currently provides for special programs, print and nonprint resources for children, and more.

The Florence Bessmer Foundation Board members are:

  • Ron Lang,  Chairman
  • Ray Penner, Treasurer
  • John Robb, Secretary
  • Cathy Anderson, NPL Board President