Building an academic library fundraising program “from scratch”

Purpose – The purpose of this review is to advocate for establishing development programs founded on clear goals and priorities tied to strategic planning and resulting in compelling cases for support. Design/methodology/approach – Five recent authors' perspectives cover hiring a professional development officer, a team strategy including fostering a synergistic relationship with development staff, and building a donor base prior to successful fundraising rooted in customer service, outreach and marketing. Findings – Public university libraries without development programs should attempt to start such programs. Library deans should expect to be more involved in advocacy and fundraising, and to develop the necessary skills. Staff should understand it as intrinsic to the library environment. There will be a continuing demand for fundraising professionals in libraries. Originality/value – Libraries that have not previously established their own fundraising programs will minimize their disadvantages in competing for donors and alternative funding with institutions that have by beginning programs prior to a sustained economic recovery.