THE GISMONDI VITAL LIBRARY GRANT

This program, which is funded by the Foundation and administered by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, is geared toward helping local libraries in Allegheny County which serve distressed communities. Those libraries can apply each year for grants to cover costs for a variety of things such as educational programs, equipment, technology updates, furniture, maintenance and repairs, and more. 

“We have always had a keen interest in supporting local libraries,” says John Gismondi, “because in most of these small communities the library is one of its most important civic assets. Today’s libraries are involved in much more than lending out books. They provide a wide range of services and assistance such as internet access, meeting space, preschool and after-school activities, senior citizen support, and so much more.”

Unfortunately, the funding of local libraries varies tremendously from one community to the next, and those which are located in distressed communities face the biggest challenges in paying for day-to-day operations.

“These grants from The Gismondi Foundation will allow library staff to improve services and experiences in their communities. . . . We appreciate the many ways The Gismondi Foundation is helping us create equitable services for all of our communities,” says Mary Frances Cooper, President and Director, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. 

“We are very pleased to partner with The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh on this project,” says John Gismondi. “They get no money at all from this program, but they have graciously agreed to oversee the grant process, and we appreciate their support.”