Registration Opens Soon for our Community Walk!
SAVE THE DATE!
The Aurora Public Library Foundation announces Sponsorship Packages for 2026!
| Support Our Story Fundraising Campaign April 21 – 25, 2026 |
| Join us for a week-long, ‘National Library Week’ celebration of community as local restaurants and bookstores come together to give back. By becoming a sponsor, you’ll help fuel a variety of fundraising events—each one supporting literacy, learning, and lifelong curiosity. A portion of all proceeds from participating businesses will directly benefit the Aurora Public Library Foundation, helping us expand programs, enhance resources, and strengthen opportunities for every customer we serve. Partner with us and make a meaningful impact in our community’s story. |
| Sponsorship Levels |
| $550 – Lead Library Week Sponsor Recognition with your logo prominent on the Save the Date and signage at the event, website and eblasts. $350 – Story Supporter Sponsor Recognition with your logo on signage at the event, website and eblasts. $100 – Community Partner Sponsor Recognition with your logo on website and eblasts. |
| Once Upon a Walk Community Fundraiser Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m | Location TBD |
| This community walk is an excellent way to engage with fellow library enthusiasts while exploring the picturesque surroundings. Whether an avid walker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, this event offers something for everyone. |
| Sponsorship Levels |
| $1,500 – Going the Distance Sponsor – Recognition with your logo prominent on all event materials – Family of Four Tickets – Verbal recognition before the walk – Booth at the event – Promotional Items in swag bag (APLF to provide bag) – Logo on t-shirt $550 – T-Shirt Sponsor – Recognition with your logo prominent on all event materials – 2 tickets to the event – Promotional Items in swag bag (APLF to provide bag) – Logo on t-shirt $350 – Walk Path Sign Sponsor – Recognition with your name on all event materials – Name on signage along walking path – Promotional Items in swag bag (APLF to provide bag) $100 – Community Partner Sponsor – Recognition with your name on all event materials – Promotional Items in swag bag (APLF to provide bag) |
| Annual Winter Gala Saturday, December 5, 2026 | Location TBD |
| We are thrilled to invite you to our annual Winter Gala. The night will be filled with elegance, entertainment, and the spirit of giving. |
| Sponsorship Levels |
| $3,500.00 – Auction Sponsor – Recognition with your logo on the invitation and program booklet – Special recognition on the auction website – Three tickets to the Winter Gala $1,500.00 – Entertainment Sponsor – Notable recognition with your logo on the invitation and program booklet – Recognition from stage before the entertainment – Two tickets to the Winter Gala $550.00 – Specialty Cocktail Sponsor – Recognition with your name on our event posters and program booklet – Special recognition on the bar where the cocktail is served $350.00 – Desserts Bar Sponsor – Recognition with your name on our event posters and program booklet – Special recognition on the Desserts Table $100.00 – Community Partner Sponsor – Recognition with your name on our event posters, website and program booklet |
| Become a Sponsor Today! You may also send a check in the mail. Please make your check payable to the Aurora Public Library Foundation.” Please mail your check to: Aurora Public Library Foundation 101 South River Street Aurora, IL 60506 |
| Please reach out with any questionsfoundation@aurorapubliclibrary.org | 630-264-4240 |
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The Aurora Public Library Foundation Raises $400,000 for Renovation Enrichment Projects at the Eola Road Branch!
The Aurora Public Library Foundation has reached a major milestone, raising $400,000 to support renovation enrichment projects at the Eola Road Branch of the Aurora Public Library. The achievement reflects strong community commitment to public libraries and underscores the vital role the Eola Road Branch plays as a hub for learning, connection, and creativity on Aurora’s East side.
The funds will be used to enhance the recently completed or ongoing renovation of the Eola Road Branch, focusing on enrichment elements that go beyond basic infrastructure improvements. These projects include a low sensory room and a new makerspace!
“This incredible level of support speaks volumes about how much our community values the library,” said Jordan Debbink-Lesniak, Foundation Manager for the Aurora Public Library Foundation. “The $400,000 raised will allow us to invest in spaces, technology, and features that make the Eola Road Branch more welcoming, flexible, and inspiring for everyone who walks through its doors.”
The Eola Road Branch serves one of Aurora’s fastest-growing areas and sees thousands of visitors each month. Families rely on the branch for early literacy programs and homework help, students use it as a study and research space, and adults attend workshops, book discussions, and community events. By investing in enrichment projects, the Foundation aims to ensure the branch can continue to support these diverse uses for years to come.
Fundraising efforts included individual donations, corporate and foundation support, special events, and targeted campaigns led by the Aurora Public Library Foundation’s board and volunteers. Donors ranged from longtime library advocates to first-time contributors inspired by the vision for an enhanced Eola Road Branch.
“The success of this campaign was truly a team effort,” the Foundation noted. “We are deeply grateful to every donor, volunteer, and partner who believed in this project and helped bring it to life.”
As renovation enrichment projects move forward, the Aurora Public Library Foundation and the Aurora Public Library plan to keep the community informed and engaged. Residents can look forward to seeing the tangible impact of the $400,000 investment as new features are installed and spaces come to life.
The fundraising milestone marks not just the success of a campaign, but a shared belief in the power of libraries to strengthen communities. With enhanced spaces and resources at the Eola Road Branch, the Aurora Public Library continues its mission to educate, inspire, and connect people throughout the city.
25th Anniversary Winter Gala!
Please enjoy this article in The Voice about our 25th Anniversary Winter Gala!
Aurora Public Library Foundation Winter Gala a success – The Voice
You’re Invited to a Magical Evening!Aurora Public Library Foundation’s 25th Year Anniversary Winter Gala
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| You’re Invited to a Magical Evening! Aurora Public Library Foundation’s 25th Year Anniversary Winter Gala Saturday, December 6th Meyer Ballroom, Paramount Theater –5:30 p.m. - Cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres –6:30 p.m. - Dinner –7:30 p.m. - Awards Ceremony $125 per person or reserve a table for 8 at $900. Tickets Don’t Forget…Register for the Auction by texting ’25th-winter-gala’ to 44834 Our 2025 Awardees –Marilyn Weisner – Thomas J. Weisner Excellence in Educational Collaboration Award –Reuland Family/Reuland’s Catering – Richard and Gina Santori Lifelong Learning Inspiration Award –Dara Nelson and Robin Schaff – Kelly McCleary Community Service Award |
| Thank You to our Current Sponsors 25th Anniversary Sponsor  Auction Sponsor  Entertainment Sponsor -Aurora Alderwoman Smith  -McCleary Family -Nila Basile Family      Dessert Sponsor -Aurora Alderman Núñez -Coffman Trucks -GreenState Credit Union -Nicole and Keith Benziger -Numark Credit Union -Obbligato Business Partners -State Senator Linda Holmes Photo Booth Sponsors -Aurora Alderman Saville -CamMi Photo Booth -DJ’s 4 You! -Hallett Movers Community Partner Sponsor -Aurora Fast Print -Lazy Dog Restuarant -Yellow Bird Books |
| Questions: Please call 630-264-4154oremail foundation@aurorapubliclibrary.org |
Sponsorships are available for our 25th Year Anniversary Winter Gala!
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| As part of our 25th anniversary this year, our Annual Winter Gala will be hosted on Saturday, December 6th at the Paramount Theater’s Meyer Ballroom! We are hopeful that you will be a sponsor this year. Our fundraising efforts will continue to provide support to the Library Branch Renovation Enrichment Projects and literacy programs for Aurora. Both of these projects are rooted in the library’s vision of connecting people to community, celebrating every story. Become a Sponsor! 25th Anniversary Sponsorship Levels $3,500.00+ – Auction Sponsor Recognition with your logo on the program booklet, eblast and on social media Special recognition on the auction website Four tickets to the Winter Gala $2,000.00+ – Entertainment Sponsor Recognition with your logo on the program booklet, eblast and on social media Special recognition on the auction website Four tickets to the Winter Gala $750.00+ – Photobooth Sponsor Recognition with your name on the program booklet, eblast and on social media Special recognition on the bar next to the photo booth Two Tickets to the Winter Gala $250.00+ – Desserts Bar Sponsor Recognition with your name on the program booklet, eblast and on social media Special recognition on the Desserts Table $150.00+ – Community Partner Sponsor Recognition with your name on the program booklet, eblast and on social media The Aurora Public Library Foundation is a registered 501c3. Your gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please consult your tax preparer for all other tax |
2024-2025 Aurora Public Library Foundation Annual Report!
APLF hosts first Community Walk!
Join us for a fun-filled morning as we celebrate our library community with a refreshing community walk. This event is scheduled for Sunday, June 15th, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Participants are invited to park and meet at the Eola Road Branch of the Library, where we will commence our walk along the beautiful Waubonsie Lake Park Trail. For just $5 per person, you will receive a T-shirt, frisbee, and other fun items for the family, making it a great value and a perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, meet new friends, and support your local library.
This community walk is an excellent way to engage with fellow library enthusiasts while exploring the picturesque surroundings of Waubonsie Lake Park Trail. Whether you’re an avid walker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, this event offers something for everyone. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, whose support makes this event possible and helps us continue to offer valuable programs and resources to our community. We encourage you to bring your friends and family for a memorable morning. We look forward to seeing you there and being part of this exciting event!
Thank you to our Sponsors:
Numark Credit Union
Stumm Insurance
Old Second Bank
Giving Force Foundation
Old National Bank
Waubonsee College
Alderwoman Shweta Baid
Aurora Fast Signs
Tickets Available here: Aurora Public Library Foundation · Community Walk!
Shop for a Cause: Honors former Foundation Board Member Delia Nila Basile
On Thursday, April 24, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Wyckwood House, the Aurora Public Library Foundation hosted a Shop for a Cause! This special event honored the life of our beloved community member, Delia “Dee” Nila Basile.
This year’s Shop for a Cause was more than just a shopping event—it was a night of inspiration and connection, remembering APLD’s Foundation member and event founder, Dee Basile. Known for her passion for fun, fashion, and community, the evening honored her legacy and the lasting impact she has on APLD and the Aurora community. “Dee has been a vibrant part of the Aurora Public Library Foundation!” said Foundation manager, Jordan. “We look forward to honoring her life and work on our board with our community at this year’s event.”
Shop for a Cause was an event inspired by Dee. “Her passion for the library, fostering a love for learning, and supporting women in business was something our Dee was a champion of!” added Jordan. Last year’s event was a heartwarming success with over 55 attendees supporting APLD’s sensory spaces. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet passionate supporters of the library and witness the community’s generosity firsthand.
Thanks to many generous donors, this year’s Shop for a Cause was able to raise over $4,000 in support of our Enrichment Projects at the Eola Road Branch!