A local supporter recently shared a video on social media wearing our 2022 "Read Banned Books" shirt, and it ended up going viral creating an unprecedented wave of new sales. We have received nearly $75,000 in donations from this campaign, and we're still receiving orders every day.

The Meridian Library Foundation is overwhelmed with gratitude from supporters locally, nationwide, and even Canada, Australia, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, and Norway! It has been a difficult year for libraries, including our own; we truly believe the support of this one little campaign in Meridian, Idaho is a reflection of excellent library staff and services across the country, and a statement of support for our freedom to read.

Because of your incredible generosity, the Foundation has been able to FULLY FUND all the Early Literacy & Sensory Installations at Meridian Library's new Orchard Park location. This new library is dedicated to early literacy, and designed with accessibility in mind. Through the thoughtful & intentional design of this public space, thousands of youth and other patrons will be able to access a public library (maybe even for the first time), and feel like it was made for them.

I have spoken with library staff, and they are feeling supported from all corners of the country, and excited that this Foundation fundraiser will help support our community in new and innovative ways.

The Foundation never fathomed the enormous outpouring of support for this campaign. As a small nonprofit, we do not have the capacity to thank everyone individually, but I am continuing to send out thank you letters daily!

On behalf of the Meridian Library Foundation, and from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!

Eryn Turner
Executive Director, Meridian Library Foundation