Escondido Library Endowment Foundation

The Escondido Library Endowment Foundation is a private nonprofit organization based in Escondido, California. Founded in 1993, it operates as a private foundation with a 501(c)(3) designation, which allows donations to be tax-deductible[1][5]. The foundation's mission is generally aligned with supporting educational and charitable purposes, though specific details about its objectives beyond library support are not readily available.

Financial Overview

Historically, the foundation has relied heavily on contributions for its revenue. For example, in 2017, it received $15,364 in contributions, accounting for approximately 94.8% of its total revenue. Other income contributed to the remaining 5.2%[1]. As of the fiscal year ending September 2017, the foundation reported total assets of $507,413 with liabilities of $4,668[1]. By 2021, however, the total revenue had significantly decreased to $9,326[4][5].

Operational and Governance Structure

The foundation's governance structure includes various directors. In the past, key roles have been filled by individuals such as Jack Anderson serving as President, Shirlie Downey as Treasurer, and Marta Palmerton as Secretary, among others[1]. Notably, compensation for officers was reported as zero in available financial data, suggesting either volunteer service or inclusion of compensation within charitable disbursements[1].

Library Support and Community Engagement

The Escondido Library Endowment Foundation has been involved in efforts to support local library initiatives. In 2010, it presented a concept for a new library to the Escondido City Council alongside the Escondido Library Board of Trustees[2]. This effort was part of a broader push to address the need for a more modern library facility, as highlighted by the Escondido Mayor's New Library Task Force in 2007[2]. Despite such initiatives, library usage metrics have shown mixed trends over the years, with decreases in registered users and public computer use noted in some periods[2].

Grant History

In 2021, the foundation did not disburse any grants, reflecting a limited operational scope in terms of direct grant-making during that period[3]. The lack of grant activity in recent years may indicate either strategic realignment or resource constraints.