“A library is not a luxury but one of the necessities of life.” – Henry Ward Beecher
In 1971, the “new” Modesto Library opened at its present downtown location. Now, fifty years later, the library is in serious need of repair. Public monies have been committed to address safety concerns, replace carpet and lighting and create several new learning and study areas. However, more was needed to elevate the library to a level of excellence and a source of pride for all Modestans.
Friends of the Modesto Library undertook a $3 million capital campaign to provide enhancements that will make our library a vibrant, attractive resource that the people of Modesto can be proud of.
- Reimagined Early Childhood Room
- Comfortable, durable furnishings for the main floor
- Inviting, durable furnishings for the Children’s Library
- Tech upgrades for public meeting rooms
- Quiet Reading Room furniture and fixtures
- Upgrades to the McHenry Room auditorium
- Art gallery to display work of local artists
A Lifelong Legacy
The existing renovation plan demonstrates our community leaders’ belief in the importance of the library. The community responded enthusiastically and, as of November 2025, we have reached our $3 million goal!
Your financial support for the Lifelong Legacy campaign will provide vital enhancements that will help us reach a new level of excellence. Your gift, large or small, will make a positive difference to help the Library meet the growing needs of today and adapt into the future.
Founding Gifts Committee
- Boyett Family Foundation
- Dan & Denise Costa
- Daniel & Andrea Del Real
- Ron & Lynn Dickerson
- Dr. Steve & Ann Endsley
- Dr. Clarke & Stacey Filippi
- Elvio & Susan Filippi
- Jeff & Britta Foster
- Lou & Kenni Friedman
- The George & Dianne Gagos Family
- Dave & Patty Halvorson
- John & Edith Jacinto
- Ken & Katy Menges
- Chris & Becky Murphy
- Gary & Sharilyn Nelson
- Dave & Jeanne Olson
- Nicole Piccinini Pesco
- Porges Family Foundation
- Jim & Chris Reed
- Janet Rogers & Bev LaBelle
- Alice and James Yip