The Library Foundation seeks to grow the Endowment Fund to provide long term and continuous funding to supplement the funds provided by county, state and Federal entities. The Foundation envisions that the endowment fund will provide an annual stream of funds from its earnings that will support ongoing programs and special needs of the library. Endowment gifts can provide years of benefits, long after the gift is made. Endowment gifts made as appreciated stocks or bonds allow the donor to avoid the taxes on the difference between the purchase price and the appreciated value, yet claim a deduction for the full appreciated value. Donors should seek advice from their tax accountant.

Funds generated by the endowment fund will be applied to branch libraries with the recommendation of the Library Director, and the agreement of the Foundation Board that there is need. Some current examples of areas that could be considered for support are life skills learning centers, in depth collections, and the preservation and expansion of access to the Beaufort Historical Collection.

Although it may take several years to do so, the Foundation’s goal for the endowment Fund is $10 million. Individuals, corporations, other foundations, and government funding sources will be solicited to meet this ambitious goal.