Dear Briarcliff Neighbor,

We are writing to tell you about the great things happening at our Library!

Construction of the expanded Library is well under way, with completion slated for early 2009. In a November 2006 referendum, Briarcliff's voters authorized the Village to spend up to $4 million to build the new two-story wing. The Village's vision for the Library expansion has always been a public/private partnership: the $4 million bond to pay for the addition to the original building, and $1 million in private funds to furnish the addition and restore the existing building. It is the job of the Friends of the Briarcliff Manor Public Library, Inc., a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, to raise this $1 million.

Briarcliff's new crown jewel will be both a library and cultural center featuring vastly expanded resources for adults, children and young adults. Amenities will include:

• a community room for concerts, lectures and art exhibitions
• public meeting space
• wireless internet connections
• separate soundproof lab for computer training
• children's room and program room for children's activities
• dedicated teen area
• reference area with print, multi-media and online resources
• comfortable seating for relaxing and reading in a beautiful, safe environment.

We began a quiet phase of fundraising some months ago and the response has been overwhelming. Members of our community have already pledged or donated almost $600,000. Remarkably, nearly 100% of these funds will reach the Library because Briarcliff volunteers have contributed their time and talent to date. Lead giving and naming opportunities for rooms in the Library are still available and necessary to reach our goal.

Your receipt of this letter marks the beginning of the public phase of the campaign. We are asking for the broadest community involvement as this campaign gains momentum. We invite you to lend your support to the new centerpiece of the community.

Here's how:

• Join our Committee, now in formation, to show your public support for our Library. There is no condition, minimum pledge or volunteer service requirement to join the Committee.
• Volunteer: we are counting on the enthusiastic support of the residents of Briarcliff Manor to reach our $1 million goal. We welcome the participation of as many residents as possible. If you would like to become involved, please contact one of us to participate in this exciting endeavor.
• Finally, give!

Please look for the giving opportunity that is right for you. The list of naming opportunities shows how you can honor a relative or friend, or express your personal support for the Library. Every dollar, every donation is important - but we highlight that this is a one-time campaign with lasting value for generations to come. All contributions are tax deductible. Please take advantage of any matching contribution opportunity that your employer provides.

Kindly review the capital campaign section of this website. Please help ensure that the Briarcliff Manor Public Library becomes the cultural centerpiece our community deserves.