The San Mateo Public Library Foundation (SMPLF) is looking for a new Board Member who can help champion the Library's vision and foster community support. With an annual fundraising goal of around $300,000, SMPLF plays a crucial role in funding vital programs that extend beyond public resources, such as the Summer Learning Challenge, Project Read for adult literacy, and various cultural initiatives across its branches. The Foundation seeks a diverse board that reflects the community of San Mateo and welcomes candidates from various backgrounds, particularly those with expertise in areas such as fundraising, finance, human resources, and marketing. Skills in major donor cultivation, financial management, employment practices, and community engagement are especially valued as the board works to enhance the Library's impact.
About San Mateo Public Library Foundation:
San Mateo Public Library Foundation works hand-in-hand with Library staff and City leadership, actively deepening relationships with local businesses, corporations, and community partners to maximize impact. The Foundation is seeking board members who bring energy and effort, can leverage existing connections or enjoy building new ones, and care about the Library’s role as one of San Mateo’s most essential public institutions. SMPLF builds a community of Library advocates and donors by amplifying the Library’s vision and inspiring pride in its accomplishments. Each year, the Foundation raises approximately $300,000 to support programs that the Library could not sustain through public funding alone, including the Summer Learning Challenge serving nearly 7,000 kids, Project Read focusing on adult literacy, San Mateo Celebrates!, cultural programming across three branches, and more.
Term and Time
Term: Three years, renewable once (six years max). New members are approved by the full Board on recommendation of the Nominating Committee.
Board Meetings: Six per year (Sep, Nov, Jan, Mar, May, Jun), typically Tuesday evenings. Three consecutive absences may result in a request to step down.
Committees: Serve on at least one committee and one project per year. Committees meet monthly or quarterly (Finance, Nominating, Fundraising Incubator, Advocacy, Appreciations, Corporate Connections).
Overall: Approximately 5–8 hours/month, with heavier lift around the Fall Appeal, Spring Appeal, and San Mateo Celebrates!
Financial Commitment: Every board member makes a meaningful personal gift each year—100% participation signals to donors, grantmakers, and the community that our leadership is invested. “Meaningful” is personal and reflects your capacity. Members who are able are encouraged to join the Leadership Circle ($1,000+). Beyond personal giving, we expect active support of fundraising through solicitations, introductions, and event participation.
What’s on the Horizon
20th Anniversary celebrations and a potential flagship fundraising gala
Expanding corporate partnerships with San Mateo’s business community
Sustaining fundraising momentum (Fall Appeal just exceeded $201K vs. $165K goal)
Growing our endowment and strengthening financial oversight
Marina Branch reopening in 2027, expanding programming and community reach
What You Get
A hand in shaping the future of one of San Mateo’s most vital community institutions
Relationships with civic leaders, business professionals, and community advocates
Growth in nonprofit governance, fundraising strategy, and organizational leadership
Tangible community impact through literacy, workforce and cultural programs
To Apply
Complete the Board Interest Form at smplf.org to indicate your interest. The Nominating Committee reviews candidates on a rolling basis. Not sure yet? We’re happy to have a conversation first. Please contact Austin Volz (avolz@smplf.org).
