Your Library. Your Legacy.
Transform lives and communities for generations to come when you make a planned gift.
Chicago Public Library opens doors to opportunity for every Chicagoan. As one of the nation’s largest and most visited public library systems, CPL freely provides access to information, technology, and educational programs across 81 branches spanning the entire city.
For 40 years, the Chicago Public Library Foundation and our donors have shaped the Library into the vital institution it is today by investing in lifelong learning programs that tax dollars alone can’t fund and championing the Library’s boldest initiatives – from going fine free to giving every student a library card to making sure that all Chicagoans have access to digital resources.
Your legacy gift helps make these opportunities possible for generations to come.
Ways to Make a Planned Gift
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There are different ways to make a planned gift. Your gift can be designated to your wishes toward a specific purpose or toward supporting the Foundation’s ongoing work in fueling Chicago Public Library’s impact.
Click on the arrows to learn more about each gift type. You can also download our PDF of gift options to share with your financial advisors.
Bequests in Your Will or Trust
- Name the Chicago Public Library Foundation as a beneficiary of a specific amount, percentage, or remainder of your estate in your will or living trust.
The Library Foundation recommends donors consider the following language for use in their wills:- “I give and bequeath ($___ dollars or ___% of the residue of my estate) to the Chicago Public Library Foundation (EIN: 36-3480353), 200 W. Madison Street, 3F, Chicago, Illinois 60606, for its general purposes, which supports Chicago Public Library.”
- If you wish to make a bequest for a specific purpose: “I give and bequeath ($___ dollars or ___% of the residue of my estate) to the Chicago Public Library Foundation (EIN: 36-3480353), 200 W. Madison Street 3F, Chicago, Illinois 60606, for Chicago Public Library to be used for (insert a purpose, branch, or category of service, such as children’s or teen services).”
Retirement Assets Beneficiary
Designate CPLF as a beneficiary of your retirement plan. Gifts of assets from qualified plans such as 401(k), 403(b), and IRA can all help leave your legacy. The basic information you need to include CPLF as beneficiary is:
Legal Name: Chicago Public Library Foundation
Address: 200 West Madison Street, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60606
Federal Nonprofit Tax Identification Number: 36-3480353
Life Insurance Policy Beneficiary
Designate CPLF as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy. The basic information you need to include CPLF as beneficiary is:
Legal Name: Chicago Public Library Foundation
Address: 200 West Madison Street, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60606
Federal Nonprofit Tax Identification Number: 36-3480353
Donor Advised Fund Beneficiary
The information you need to include CPLF as a beneficiary in your DAF is:
Legal Name: Chicago Public Library Foundation
Address: 200 West Madison Street, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60606
Federal Nonprofit Tax Identification Number: 36-3480353
For More Information
We’re happy to work with you and your advisors to set up a plan that best aligns with your goals, including establishing an endowment or other options. Contact Director of Legacy & Impact Giving, Audrey Peiper, at 312-374-5246, apeiper@cplfoundation.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is planned giving?
Planned giving refers to charitable gifts that are arranged now but made in the future—often through a will, trust, retirement plan, or other financial vehicle. These gifts allow you to support Chicago Public Library in a lasting and meaningful way while meeting your personal financial and estate goals.
What types of assets can I use to make a planned gift?
You can use a variety of assets, including:
- Cash
- Securities or appreciated stock
- Retirement plan assets (IRAs, 401(k)s)
- Life insurance policies
We can help you explore the option that works best for your goals.
Can I designate how my gift will be used?
Yes. You may direct your gift to a specific program area (early literacy, teens, or digital access), a specific impact priority (Activating Creativity & Connection, Bridging the Digital Divide, or Closing the Academic Opportunity Gap), or recommend the Foundation use it where it’s needed most. We’ll work with you to ensure your intentions are honored.
Do I need to notify the Library Foundation if I’ve included a gift in my estate plans?
We would be honored to know! While you are not required to notify us, sharing your plans helps us thank you properly, welcome you into our Legacy Circle and connect you with the Library’s work, and ensure your wishes are documented and understood.
Can my gift remain anonymous?
Absolutely. We respect donor privacy and will honor your wishes regarding recognition.
Is there a minimum gift amount?
While minimum gift amounts may be required to create an endowment fund, there is no minimum to include the Chicago Public Library Foundation in your will or estate plans. Every gift, regardless of size, plays a vital role in sustaining the Library’s mission for generations to come.
Should I involve my financial or legal advisor?
Yes. Your advisor can help ensure your gift aligns with your estate planning goals. We are also available to collaborate with your advisors to provide the necessary information or sample language.
Can the Library Foundation help me draft legal documents?
We cannot provide legal or tax advice, but we can share sample bequest language and work directly with your advisor to ensure your intentions are clear.
Who can I talk to for more information?
We would love to speak with you. You can contact Audrey Peiper, Director of Legacy & Impact Giving, at 312-374-5246 or apeiper@cplfoundation.org.
The information presented on this site is not offered as legal or tax advice. For assistance with your particular information, please consult your attorney, tax advisor, financial advisor, or other professional.
CONTACT US
Whether you’re beginning to explore your options or ready to finalize your plans, the Library Foundation is honored to work with you and your financial advisors.
Contact Audrey Peiper, Director of Legacy & Impact Giving.
312-374-5246, apeiper@cplfoundation.org