Library’s Ongoing Capital Campaign Seeks to Build Trust, Secure Donors
By Christina Brandmeier, Northwoods Star Journal
Eight months ago, in June 2024, the Rhinelander District Library (RDL) and RDL Foundation launched a capital campaign for the $7 million renovation and expansion of its 121-year-old facility.
As of a recent Feb. 18 board meeting, Fundraising Coordinator Kim Swisher said the foundation has raised over $900,000 since its launch from donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations.
Additionally, the day after the meeting, the library received notification from the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation that it would donate $20,000 over two years, $10,000 in 2025, and $10,000 in 2026.
While Swisher said the fundraising has been slower than expected and initially hoped to complete it within two years, there’s no set deadline. She said the team remains committed and is working to build trust and awareness in the community about the library’s modern relevance.
