COLUMBUS—The Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation (CMLF) has received a $3.1 million gift from Battelle, the largest onetime gift ever received by CMLF in its history. Leaders from Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML), CMLF and Battelle made the announcement onstage this past weekend at the Columbus Book Festival.
CMLF will use this funding to:
- Enhance CML’s Summer Reading Challenge
- Expand CML’s Ready for Kindergarten classes and resources
- Develop a new author series for children and families
- Invest in community and school outreach
- Add personalized learning elements and technology at many of CML’s 23 locations
Battelle served as the Presenting Sponsor for this past weekend’s inaugural Columbus Book Festival. The organization will also hold this distinction at CMLF’s annual fundraising event, Celebration of Learning, to be held at Main Library on Nov. 3.
“This truly is a transformational gift,” said CML CEO Patrick Losinski. “We’re grateful for Battelle’s generosity. This is about more than dollars and cents; it is a vote of confidence in the critical work we do in our community. We do not take that responsibility lightly.”
“With this gift, Battelle seeks to spark curiosity in young minds across central Ohio,” said Wes Hall, Vice President of Philanthropy & Education at Battelle. “Reading opens doors for the next generation of leaders and we are proud to join our library partners in expanding access across our community.”
The Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation provides financial support for CML’s greatest needs and highest priorities through philanthropic giving. Every day, CML provides vital services to the central Ohio community, from sparking conversations about social justice to helping our youngest readers build a foundation for lifelong learning. Support for the CMLF ensures that the library is able to offer programs and services free and open to all.
Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit battelle.org.
