The annual Author’s Gala is the San Mateo Public Library Foundation’s signature fundraising event. Coordinated by the talented volunteers of the Foundation’s Literary Society, the Gala has provided nearly one million dollars of essential support to the Library in the past six years.

On April 29th, 2017, supporters of the San Mateo Public Library gathered at the San Mateo Marriot for the yearly event. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, followed by a plated 3-course dinner. After brief remarks from Literary Society, Foundation, and Library leaders, supporters learned about our Library and this year’s outreach vehicle Fund-A-Need project. The evening concluded with a rousing presentation by award-winning author Armistead Maupin, (Tales of the City) in conversation with KQED’s Rachael Myrow.

This year’s Gala raised over $100,000 to cover the basic costs of a new pop-up Library outreach vehicle that will travel to local parks, festivals, senior centers, and schools to bring learning and literacy to even more people in our community. The Foundation is deeply grateful to the event’s Co-Chairs, Host Committee, Sponsors, Attendees, and all who helped make the evening a success!

It’s not too late to support this year's Fund-A-Need. Although basic costs of the outreach vehicle have been covered, customizations are necessary in order to get the vehicle ready to roll. Learn more about this exciting project, and make a gift today!