Fundraisers

Madison Public Library Foundation hosts two signature fundraising events annually: Lunch for Libraries in the spring, and Ex Libris in the fall.

Save the Date: Ex Libris Will Be Held November 6, 2026

Ex Libris is a celebration of local craft beverages and culinary creations. Our 2026 event will be held on November 6, 2026. Ex Libris proceeds support Madison Public Library collections, services and programs.

Stay tuned for additional event details and ticket announcements.

Lunch for Libraries Raises Over $164,000 on May 6, 2026

More than 800 supporters turned out for Madison Public Library’s 15th annual Lunch for Libraries fundraiser on May 5, 2026 at Monona Terrace and Convention Center. The event featured National Book Award-winning author Jesmyn Ward, in conversation with UW-Madison Creative Writing professor and author, Nate Marshall.

Ward spoke about her new book, On Witness and Respair. The event, which is Wisconsin’s largest gathering of library supporters, generated over $164,000 before expenses to benefit the Wisconsin Book Festival. Thank you to our other sponsors, table captains, co-chairs and planning committee for their support.

Deepen Your Impact

For information on year-round event sponsorship opportunities, please email events@mplfoundation.org