Public libraries are the great equalizers in society: all are invited to expand their minds, and anyone can access critical community resources. The Foundation supports Virginia’s largest public library system, developing initiatives for its 23 branches that serve 1.2 million residents. Early literacy outreach representatives bring books and story time visits to preschool children in childcare centers and Head Start classrooms. First-time juvenile offenders participate in a rehabilitative book group, an alternative to formal court action that builds their self-esteem and drastically reduces recidivism. Scholarships for library staff and volunteers enhance their skills, and funding for new books and materials (more than $150,000 annually) allows for the largest possible selection. With less than 1% of Fairfax County’s budget allocated to libraries, the Foundation ensures these essential institutions continue to meet residents’ needs.

Headquarters: VA-Fairfax County

Where They Operate: VA-Fairfax County; VA-City of Fairfax

Age Groups Served: Infants (0-2); Pre-K (3-4); Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17); Young adult (18-24); Adult (25-49); Seniors (50+); All

Population(s) Served: All


  • Books distributed to underserved preschoolers:   30,000 each year
  • Juvenile first-time offenders served in the Changing Lives Through Literature program:   Nearly 600 teens to date
  • Funds provided to purchase books for the library:   More than $100,000 annually
  • Scholarship funds awarded to library staff and volunteers:   $230,000 and growing
  • Attendance at library programs:   210,000 annually

Awards & Recognition

Ready to Read Early Literacy Outreach Program won the Fairfax County Volunteer Service Award, 2014

Fairfax County Changing Lives Through Literature Program received two awards: An Outstanding Achievement in Local Government Innovation Award and a NACo (National Association of Counties) Achievement Award, 2008

Art in the Pages, the first ever public art initiative in Fairfax, brought large decorative book statues to all library branches and other locations in the Fairfax area supporting programs and services, 2006

Foundation received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education for the library to create six new computer clubhouses throughout Fairfax County, 2005

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors issued a resolution declaring the month of October as Foundation Month in the County of Fairfax, 2004

Press

  • Library Jubilee Fundraiser in McLean
    Tue Oct 25 2016, Connection  
    "We raise money to enhance the library beyond the taxpayer funded budget," said Brian Engler, Foundation Board Chair.
    connect here

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • The current budget for Fairfax Library Foundation is: Less than $500k

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