Endowment Funds

Rosemary Lee Civic Engagement Internship Fund
This annual internship was established in memory Rosemary Lee, who died in 2015. She earned the nickname “21st Alder” for her loyal presence at Madison Common Council meetings. After a career in the insurance industry and later at UW-Madison, she spent her retirement attending council and other government meetings, serving on city committees and volunteering at numerous nonprofits. The intern’s responsibility is to research and explore ways to offer remote access to and increase engagement in city government meetings, as well as city services at the library’s nine locations.  

Judy P. Olson Book Discussion Kit Fund
Judy P. Olson, who died in November 2019, was president of Madison Public Library Foundation for 14 years. The fund was established before her retirement in honor of her service.

Betsy Moon Proctor Endowment Fund

Established in memory of Betsy Proctor, the Elizabeth Moon Proctor Scholarship fund encourages and assists Madison Public Library employees planning careers in library and information studies. Betsy enriched and enlivened Madison Public Library from 1967 until her retirement in 1996. She inspired many library careers through her intelligent, tireless dedication to public library service; her commitment to outreach and services for minority and institutionalized populations; her irrepressible, infectious laughter; and her enduring friendships.

Print Books Purchase Fund

This fund sustains and expands the library’s collection of print books.

Professional Development Endowment Fund

Madison Public Library staff can gain career growth opportunities — including conferences, workshops and other training — through this fund created with a seed gift from Barb Arnold, library staff and an anonymous donation.