Templeton Library Donor Tree adds new leaves after gifts and $10,000 grant
Donations support children’s literacy, arts and cultural programs at the independently funded library
– Three recent gifts have added new leaves and an acorn to the Donor Tree at Templeton Library, according to the library.
The donations follow renewed attention to the library’s ongoing funding challenges. Despite an original 50-50 partnership agreement with San Luis Obispo County to build and operate a library in Templeton, the county has declined to provide operating funds for the facility the community built through private donations, according to the library.
Paula Topley, a Paso Robles resident, former teacher and reading specialist in Atascadero, made a substantial contribution in recognition of the library’s commitment to children’s literacy. Topley particularly appreciates the library’s extensive collection of children’s and young adult books and its success in putting those materials into the hands of young readers.
Lisbeth Ceaser, a San Luis Obispo resident and fellow educator, also made a contribution, accompanied by a commemorative plaque honoring her husband, Carl D. Ceaser, for his years of service as a county teacher and superintendent. Her gift recognizes the importance of education and the lasting contributions of those who dedicate their lives to learning.
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County awarded the library a $10,000 Arts and Culture grant, recognizing its role in enriching community life through art classes, author presentations, music and cultural programs. Paso Robles Daily News previously reported on the community grant.
Now in its fourth year of operation, Templeton Library is a public library funded entirely through donations, grants and volunteer fundraising, according to the library. Although Templeton property owners contribute about 1.6% of their property taxes toward county library services, none of those funds support the operation of Templeton Library, the library said. Those tax revenues support the county’s 14 other library branches.
The Templeton Community Library Association, a nonprofit organization, owns and operates the library at 1173 S. Main St. Supported by volunteers and one paid administrator, the library provides free access to books, educational resources, arts and cultural programs, and a gathering place for residents of all ages. Paso Robles Daily News also reported on a local winery’s donation to the library in July.
