About

Des Moines Public Library Foundation

The Des Moines Public Library Foundation (DMPLF) supports and enriches the capabilities, resources, and services of the Des Moines Public Library system. We are proud to provide funds that foster a thriving community. 

Created as a separate 501(c)(3) foundation in 1998, DMPLF is governed by an independent board of directors. The DMPLF board, along with a small staff, invites donors from diverse backgrounds to help others improve their lives through the public library system. 

Among DMPLF’s key accomplishments was the 11-year Creating New Destinations capital campaign, which raised $21 million dollars to contribute one-half of the cost to build the Central Library in downtown Des Moines and to remodel each of the five neighborhood branches.

Through the years, we’ve supported numerous strategic planning efforts and initiatives that strengthen our library system. Currently, 87% of programs available through the Des Moines Public Library system are possible because of DMPLF and our generous, caring donors!

Each year, DMPLF raises funds from generous individuals, businesses, and foundations to donate to the Library for dozens of programs, including the Summer Reading and School Readiness program, as well as the AViD (Authors Visiting in Des Moines) series, which enables local residents to meet prominent authors such as James Patterson, Joyce Carol Oates, R. F. Kuang, Susan Orlean, Amy Tan, Mitch Albom, and dozens more.

These programs would not be possible without donor support.