Welcome to the "Restore Willard" capital fundraising campaign for the Willard Public Library! As a cherished community landmark and National Register of Historic Places designation, the Willard Public Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge, culture, and heritage for generations. Our mission is to restore and preserve this historic treasure so that it continues to serve our community with pride and distinction. With your generous support, we can undertake critical repairs and restorations to ensure the library remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all.

History of the Willard Library 

Willard Library, established in 1885, was a gift from Willard Carpenter to the city of Evansville, IN, reflecting his vision for public access to knowledge. Carpenter played a crucial role in the city's growth, helping develop businesses and building the first railroad. Though he passed away in 1883 before seeing the library completed, his legacy endures. Today, Willard Library is Indiana’s oldest public library still in its original structure and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

"Willard feels like a second home" - Testimonial from a lifelong patron

"Willard Library has been such a special place in my life. I remember going to storytime as a kid, and now, as an adult, I still find myself coming back—whether it's to learn something new or just to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s not just a library; it feels like a second home. The connections I’ve made here and the memories I’ve built are priceless." 

List of Needed Repairs 

• Repair the Slate Roof: Restore the library's iconic slate roof to ensure structural integrity and protect the building from the elements.
• Improve Water Diversion: Upgrade our drainage systems to prevent water damage and preserve the building's foundation and interior.
• Reinforce the Stairwell: Strengthen and secure our historic stairwell to enhance safety and maintain its architectural beauty.
• Tuckpoint and Mortar Repairs: Perform essential tuckpointing and mortar repairs to preserve the library's brickwork and historic facade.
• Upgrade Electrical and Mechanical Systems: Modernize our electrical and mechanical systems to improve energy efficiency and ensure the library meets current safety standards.

Ways to Help 

1. One-Time Donation: Make a tax-deductible donation to the Willard Library Foundation. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps preserve our historic library.
2. Sponsorship: Partner with us as a corporate sponsor to demonstrate your commitment to preserving local heritage and supporting community enrichment.
3. Recurring Donations: You can sign up for a recurring donation to support the library's restoration and maintenance.  A small group of donors willing to commit just $5, $7, $10, or more could help secure the Willard Library for generations.  Many Hands Make Light Work
4. Estate Planning: Include the Willard Public Library in your estate planning to leave a lasting legacy and ensure the library's future for generations to come.
5. Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness by sharing our campaign with your friends, family, and networks on social media and in your community.