THE NEED FOR THE FAU LIBRARIES

Libraries, those remarkable treasuries of knowledge, have long represented the heart of higher education, supporting the teaching, research and service missions of universities around the world. The most comprehensive gauge to measure a university's excellence is the scope and number of its library holdings, and the quality of its services.

Florida Atlantic University Libraries strive to meet the needs of more than half a million people who annually use its resources--more than 875,000 books, 1.5 million pieces of microform, and reports, college catalogs, and the latest in compact disk and worldwide-web technology to add another 1.6 million items for a combined collection of more than 4 million pieces.

The growth and development of FAU's academic programs, the increase in South Florida's population, and the expansion of regional high technology and knowledge industries require that the Libraries continue to enhance resources and services.

THE ROLE OF THE FRIENDS OF THE FAU LIBRARIES

Because the Friends recognize that the need for library services has already outpaced available resources, they seek funds to supplement Florida Atlantic University Libraries' state appropriations. The Library Endowment Fund offers Friends the opportunity to establish a growing resource, and the Fund's annual income allows the Libraries to enhance materials and services.

THE NEED FOR PRIVATE SUPPORT

State appropriations provided the original library buildings, and continue to fund basic collection and service needs. The basics, however, will not create or maintain excellence. Escalating requests for library services, manifold demands for state tax funds, Florida's low tax base, and public sentiment against tax increases mean that FAU Libraries must look beyond basic state funding if they are to fully support the University's mission.

 BECOME A MEMBER OF THE FRIENDS.

Friends are eligible for many benefits! Membership in the Friends is open to all persons or corporate entities who support the purposes of the organization. Minimal annual levels of support are:

• Student Member (registered FAU/BCC/PBCC/IRCC students) $25
• Supporting Member $100
• Sustaining Member $150-$499
• Patron $500-$999
• Presidential Patron $1000+