This year for #DoMore24DE, we're raising funds to build a beautiful and welcoming new gathering area in the rear garden at New Castle Public Library in Historic New Castle, DE!

While beautiful - when in bloom - the current garden does not have the capacity to support the growing popularity of outdoor library programs, let alone the creative new programs staff would like to host. Parts of the current design have degraded, and the space was never set up to accommodate patrons of differing abilities.

A new vision of the library garden, designed by Breckstone Architecture, would dramatically enhance the space for community uses for decades to come.

With the support of our community, in 2025 the Friends plan to construct a new, durable and accessible 285 square foot patio (see the image). With additional built-in bench seating, the new design would greatly increase the space available for programs, events and community meetings. Current wildflower beds would be relocated to new areas around the perimeter of the garden.

With a June deadline to raise the funds we need, YOU can help us 'break ground' this year! In December, NCLF received a generous grant of $25K toward the project's $65K cost - as long as we are able to raise the rest by June. Thanks to our great community, the Friends have made great progress and raised over half of what we need.

Hitting our $2000 goal for this year's Day of Giving would be another big step toward success!

If you would like to learn more about the project, or other options for giving, please visit the main Campaign Page at FriendsGarden.org. All funds raised for #DoMore24 '2025 will go toward NCLF's Garden Campaign (and will be reflected on that main campaign page after this event is complete). 

We enthusiastically support the mission of New Castle Public Library however we can. Recently, this has included contributing to...
• The new Board Games Library
• The Walk-In Collection
• Promotion of the library and its great events and programs
• Special purchases such as A/V equipment and other tech
• Providing free menstrual products in the family restroom
• Maintaining and improving the library’s courtyard and garden

As an all-volunteer organization, NCLF puts 100% of funds we raise toward our support of the library. We also raise funds by holding Book Sales and raffles throughout the year at some of Historic New Castle's best-loved events, including Separation Day and Art on the Green!

Learn more at NewCastleLibraryFriends.org!