On June 30, 2016, VCU Libraries closed the books on a record year of philanthropy with $766,294 in gifts and pledges given by 803 donors.

According to Director of Development and Major Gifts Kelly Gotschalk, "the new building and new spaces inspired many to give for the first time as we doubled the number of donors from 378 individual donors last year to 802 this year."

The types of gifts differed from the 117 individuals who donated books for book sales to the 172 individuals who joined or renewed membership in the VCU Friends of the Libraries (a 12 percent increase since last year). Many also made gifts of stock, five-year pledges and planned gifts.

"These gifts help VCU Libraries enrich scholarship and learning," says Gotschalk. "Gifts help make it possible to improve physical spaces, provide research resources and expand collections to keep pace with discovery.

"We want to thank our donors who recognize the importance of VCU Libraries. Your gifts have made an impact on the lives of our students, faculty and patrons."