Fundraisers aiming to keep the Family Library’s range of services up and running have received a boost with the news that every penny they bring in will be doubled.

Earlier this year the Family Library – which includes the Mobile Library and provides support to schools – revealed it was fighting for its future and put out a call to find corporate sponsors to help fund services provided by the charity.

As well as existing corporate sponsorship, and some local authority support, the public response has been positive, with a number of library supporters doing their bit, from staging fundraising events to some taking part in the Parish Walk to raise money.

Now a benefactor has confirmed that, for every penny raised in funds, including firm commitments of corporate sponsorship, the overall amount will be matched – to the value of ?125,000.

The annual costs for the charity to run the Family Library, Mobile Family Library and Schools Service, come to ?250,000, so that means if library supporters and sponsors can reach a target ?125,000 by July 31, then it will keep the services operating.

The Family Library, which switched to charitable status in 2012 after an end to government funding, is based in Douglas. It also operates the Mobile Family Library Service, taking books to customers all around the Island, while the Schools Service arranges visits for pupils and also provides support to teachers in the classroom.

Now the Scheinberg family, which has previously supported the Family Library, has made a commitment to match all other funds raised for each of the next three years.

Mary Cousins, librarian-in-charge at the Family Library, said: ‘We are overwhelmed by this act of generosity.

‘What it does mean, however, is that we cannot afford to ease up in our fundraising efforts. This gives us fresh incentive to redouble fundraising efforts.

‘We have been overwhelmed by the support shown since we highlighted our position earlier this year and are incredibly grateful to everyone.

‘Now we have a target to aim for.’

A spokesman for the Scheinberg family said: ‘The library services epitomise the kind of charity that the family has always been keen to support.

‘The pledge applies to each of the next three years. For every penny raised, the family will match the amount, up to a total of ?125,000.
‘That applies to all funds raised, whether it be from a cake sale, or corporate sponsorship from another organisation.’

The spokesman added: ‘We would like to stress that the Family Library still needs support from the community which it serves. It is important the fundraising goes on.’

A portion of the money required has already been raised from established fundraising efforts and support from a number of partners – with about ?70,000 more needed.

Sandra Henderson, librarian-in-charge of the Mobile Family Library, said: ‘We must be sure that all our efforts continue.

‘This gesture by the Scheinberg family is incredibly generous. We need to make certain that it achieves its aim, of enabling us to keep our services running.’

The Family Library is often a child’s first contact with a large number of books. The relaxed atmosphere helps encourage learning and play. It also acts as a venue for a wide variety of clubs and workshops.

Every part of the Isle of Man is reached by the Mobile Family Library, with some borrowers describing it as a lifeline. It also provides a doorstep service and visits many residential homes.

The Schools Service can provide tailor-made support for learning topics in school.

Recently, Chief Minister Howard Quayle acknowledged the important role of the Family Library, Mobile Family Library and Schools Service – and the benefits received by the Department of Education and Children and local authorities – and confirmed that the charity receives no government funding.

• The charity has produced an information pack for potential investors. If you or your firm is interested in becoming a major sponsor, or holding an event, contact the Family Library on 01624 640650 or email sandra.henderson@familylibrary.im or mary.cousins@familylibrary.im.