On December 1, Madison Public Library Foundation launched its $2.5 million Capital Campaign for a New Pinney Library with a Kickoff Party at the Harmony Bar. (View photos from the party on our Flickr page.)

The event was held on Giving Tuesday, the nonprofit world's version of Black Friday. The foundation announced a $75,000 challenge grant from Lau & Bea Christensen, Madison Gas and Electric Foundation, and an anonymous donor that encouraged campaign donations. With the grant match doubling gifts that day, more than $42,000 was raised to support the new library.

And not only did our generous donors meet the remaining challenge grant dollars throughout the rest of December, the goal was exceeded significantly! Read more >

Madison Kipp Corp., a manufacturer of precision machined components and subassembly systems on Madison's east side, has developed a strong giving relationship with Madison Public LIbrary Foundation in support of The Capital Campaign for a New Pinney Library.

Tony Koblinski, president and CEO of Madison Kipp, said the company additionally provides support to several east side nonprofit organizations, including the Goodman Center and Olbrich Gardens, as well as Madison College.

"We like to support worthy causes that are close to home and those that promote lifelong learning," Koblinski said. "Supporting Pinney Library, along with organizations like these, creates a strong community that attracts talented people. We need that talent to effectively compete in the global market." Read more >

A city committee made up of library staff and city employees is in the process of reviewing six proposals from architectural firms that want to design the new Pinney Library.

Once a firm is selected in March, the architect will work with library and city staff to develop a set of blueprints by late fall for construction companies interested in bidding on the project. Typically, the city will accept the lowest bid for construction. Building would begin in late 2016, with targeted project completion in the first half of 2017. Read more >