Job Description

About the San Mateo Public Library Foundation

The San Mateo Public Library Foundation raises approximately $300,000 annually to support programs the Library couldn't sustain through public funding alone — the Summer Learning Challenge (serving nearly 7,000 kids), Project Read adult literacy, San Mateo Celebrates!, and cultural programming across three branches.

As we celebrate our 20th anniversary in 2026, we're building momentum: growing our donor base, expanding corporate partnerships, and deepening our reach across San Mateo's neighborhoods. We're looking for energized, connected community members to join our Board of Directors.

What We're Looking For

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds. We especially value expertise in one or more of these areas:

• Development & Fundraising — individual giving, major donor cultivation, grants, planned giving, or nonprofit revenue strategy
• Finance & Accounting — financial management, budgeting, investment oversight, or nonprofit compliance
• Human Resources & Legal — employment practices, compensation/benefits, organizational development, bylaws
• Marketing & Communications — brand strategy, digital marketing, storytelling, PR, or community outreach
• Events & Community Engagement — planning and executing community events, festivals, galas, or corporate activations

You don't need to check every box. Strengths in one or two areas — plus a genuine willingness to pitch in — is what we're after.

Your Commitment

Every board member shows up in five ways:

• Ambassador — Attend Library events and be a visible champion for SMPLF in the community
• Financial Supporter — Make a meaningful personal gift and actively support fundraising efforts
• Active Participant — Show up to meetings prepared, respond promptly, and stay engaged between meetings
• Hands-On Helper — Serve on a committee, take on a project, and contribute your skills where needed
• Network Advocate — Leverage your relationships to open doors: donor introductions, corporate connections, community partnerships

Term & Time

• 3-year term, renewable once (6-year maximum)
• 6 board meetings per year (Sep, Nov, Jan, Mar, May, Jun) — typically Tuesday evenings
• Serve on at least one committee and one project per year
• Approximately 5–8 hours/month; heavier lift around the Fall Appeal, Spring Appeal, and San Mateo Celebrates!

Financial Commitment

Every board member makes a meaningful personal gift annually — 100% participation signals to donors, grantmakers, and the community that our leadership is invested. Members who are able are encouraged to join the Leadership Circle ($1,000+).

What's on the Horizon

• 20th Anniversary celebrations and a potential flagship fundraising gala
• Expanding corporate partnerships across San Mateo's business community
• Sustaining fundraising momentum — our Fall Appeal just exceeded $201K against a $165K goal
• Growing our endowment and strengthening financial oversight
• Marina Branch reopening in 2027, expanding community reach and programming

What You Get

• A hand in shaping the future of one of San Mateo's most vital community institutions
• Relationships with civic leaders, business professionals, and community advocates
• Real growth in nonprofit governance, fundraising strategy, and organizational leadership
• Tangible community impact through literacy, workforce, and cultural programs

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