Mission Viejo Library launches a $150K capital campaign with 50th anniversary celebration
Mission Viejo Library is kicking off a capital fundraising effort in celebration of its 50th anniversary. The “150 for 50” Capital Campaign launches at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, during a festive community event at the library, located at 15324 E. Hampden Circle.
The campaign aims to raise $75,000 in community donations to match a $75,000 contribution generously awarded by Aurora City Council—bringing the total campaign goal to $150,000. Funds will support improvements to the 50-year-old library building. Businesses in the area are also encouraged to support the effort.
Since opening its doors in 1975 with a 10,000-item collection, Mission Viejo Library has provided a welcoming space where generations of residents have come together to read, explore and grow. In 2024, Mission Viejo Library received 77,000 visits, had 57,000 items checked out and hosted 29,000 computer sessions.
“As we celebrate 50 years of stories, smiles and community, our goal is to rally the community around this milestone and help ensure the library continues thriving,” said Ginger White Brunetti, director of Library and Cultural Services. “This campaign is an investment in memories, literacy and connection for generations to come.” All donations, regardless of the amount receive a limited-edition gift marking the occasion.
The public is invited to join the celebration and show their support. The free, family friendly event will include a presentation of Mission Viejo history, historical displays, a colorful balloon party, remarks from the Aurora mayor and council members, and the unveiling of a limited-edition commemorative library card.
This capital campaign is a first in the 95 years in the history of Aurora Public Library and is done in conjunction with the independent nonprofit Friends of Aurora Public Library. One hundred percent of the donations will go to fund library improvements.
To learn more about the “150 for 50” Capital Campaign or to make a donation, visit ColoradoGives.org/Story/150for50, or stop by the Mission Viejo Library.
About Aurora Public Library
Aurora Public Library serves the city of Aurora at seven branches, one bookmobile, access to digital materials and hundreds of programs. In 2024, it received 560,000 in-person visits, had 1.2 million items checked out, answered more than 330,000 questions from the community, had over 65,000 program participants and hosted 5,700 meetings at its community rooms. Combining all the different ways the library serves the community; Aurora Public Library was used 3.4 million times in 2024 alone. Aurora Public Library is a division of the city of Aurora Library and Cultural Services Department. To learn more, visit AuroraLibrary.org.
About Friends of Aurora Public Library
The Friends of Aurora Public Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 1987 with the mission to support programs and services of the Aurora Public Library with financial donations and to celebrate the lifetime joys of reading by offering a wide variety of low-cost books the Book Outlet Store, 2243 S. Peoria St. In 2024, it donated $60,000 to Aurora Public Library. To learn more, visit Fapl.Info.