GiveBIG 2015May 5, 2015, is #GiveBIG Day in Seattle, a huge day for local nonprofits. Through the Seattle Foundation, your charitable donations are “stretched” with matching dollars — and special $1,000 Golden Ticket bonuses will be added to random donations throughout the day. Over 1,600 nonprofits will be participating, but I hope you’ll consider giving to the Seattle Public Library, and here’s why.

  • Books are just the beginning. The library offers a ton of materials and services besides books: ebooks and audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, streaming music and videos, digital magazines, free museum passes, and more. Learn more about what the library has to offer you.
  • Libraries can save lives — literally. Through King County’s Safe Place program, youths aged 12-17 can go to any library branch to receive immediate help. A Safe Place coordinator will respond 24/7, providing resources, connecting the young person to shelter services, or reuniting them with family when safe and appropriate.
  • There’s nothing like a librarian. Get live help from a librarian through online chat, available 24/7/365. Use Your Next 5 to get customized book suggestions from librarians based on what you like to read. Or stop in at an information desk with your questions and they’ll be happy to help.
  • Free access to over 1,900 online courses through lynda.com. This is a new benefit for Seattle Library members that I’ve been telling everyone about. Previously, you had to use a library computer to access their free lynda.com portal, but now you can login from anywhere and start watching instantly. With expert tutorials on everything from graphic design and photography to business and finance, this is a fantastic educational resource, and it’s FREE. Membership is normally $25/month, so why not donate the value of a one-month membership for this awesome benefit?
  • Get a VIP backstage tour of the library. Your $50 donation gets you a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Central Library. See the inner workings of the library, as well as its art and architecture. You better believe I wouldn’t pass this up!

These amazing services are free for all Seattle Public Library members, so if you don’t have a library card yet, sign up for one today. And while I hope you’re inspired to donate to the library, I’d be just as thrilled if you decide to give to any of the other 1,599 worthy nonprofits that are part of GiveBIG 2015. Happy #GiveBIG Day!

Stephanie Perry
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