The National Library of Wales would be nothing without its supporters – be they readers, visitors, learners, customers, or anyone else who makes use of our myriad services. The fact that the Library was established through the direct support of the people of Wales is one that is acknowledged and celebrated by its staff, and our current fundraising programmes have been developed in order to assist those who would wish to continue this vital tradition. We are grateful to everyone who chooses to make a financial donation to the Library, whether that’s by placing a few coins in our donation boxes, by making a regular donation through direct debit or online gift, by arranging a legacy gift, or by becoming a patron, and it is this assistance that enables us to undertake vital conservation work (such as the restoration of negatives from the Geoff Charles collection), create new educational programmes (such as the artist in residence project) and support the development of our collections.
For those who would like to become a little bit more involved in the Library’s development work, you might wish to consider joining our patron scheme, Chapters. The annual subscription for individuals is £250 and £400 for joint patrons, and in return for your support we will offer a full programme of special events such as keynote speaker lectures (this year we were honoured to be both entertained and illuminated by Terry Jones and David Loyn), behind-the-scenes introductions to our collections and services, special visits to other locations such as Gwydir Castle and the Nanhoron Estate, historical walks (Trevor Fishlock and Gerald Morgan being two notable recent guides), as well as other benefits such as an exclusive e-newsletter. Each Chapters event is always interesting and lively, and it’s clear that the members enjoy being so close to and involved with our collections and work. And it’s this infectious enthusiasm that brings the importance of our work sharply into focus; it demonstrates that the Library matters to individuals, as well as the wider community, and without your support, we simply wouldn’t exist.
Sara Lee Branch
Strategy and Research Manager