The new Fanwood Memorial Library building stands as a testament to
what’s possible when a community comes together. Thanks to the vision and support of
borough leadership, dedicated staff, and generous residents, Fanwood and the surrounding
communities now have a vibrant, state-of-the-art library designed to meet the needs of today’s
families. The bright, welcoming space features expanded areas for children and teens, quiet
reading and study zones, flexible meeting rooms, and upgraded technology throughout.
Whether you’re stopping in for storytime, a movie, a community event, or simply a good book,
the new library invites everyone to feel at home.
Many residents know and love the Fanwood Memorial Library—but few may realize there is a
new dedicated organization working behind the scenes to support its future. The Fanwood
Library Foundation, a small, all-volunteer nonprofit, was recently established to raise awareness
and build lasting financial support for the library and its evolving role in the community.
Inspired by the beautiful new library facility and the energy of Fanwood’s engaged residents, the
Foundation exists with a clear mission: to ensure the library has the resources it needs to grow,
innovate, and serve families for generations to come.
“Our community values all that a library does, and we created the Foundation to give people a
meaningful way to help it thrive,” said Foundation President Michele Saliola. “We want
residents, businesses, and community leaders to know that they have a new partner to help
them give something back, to pay forward to the next generation all that reading and learning
has contributed to their lives. Together we can make sure our library continues to be a source of
inspiration and connection.”
The Foundation’s focus goes beyond books and buildings. It’s about ensuring the library
continues to be a place where residents of all ages can connect to ideas, information, and each
other. A key priority is supporting the Scotch Plains-Fanwood school district’s mission to raise
confident and caring lifelong learners.
“The Fanwood Memorial Library has always been a cornerstone of our community, and its
transformation is a powerful symbol of what we can accomplish together,” said Mayor Colleen
Mahr. “The creation of the Library Foundation ensures that our investment today continues to
grow tomorrow. It’s about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about enriching lives, supporting
education, and building a stronger Fanwood for generations to come.”
With the help of families in Fanwood, Scotch Plains, and the surrounding region, the Foundation
has begun to build an endowment that will provide annual support for next-level programs,
technologies, and services. The Foundation board hopes to connect with more individuals and
business leaders who would like to help ensure the library has the resources it needs to
anticipate the needs to serve residents of all ages and backgrounds. At its core, the Foundation
believes that a strong library strengthens the entire community.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Fanwood Memorial Library to learn more about the
Foundation’s efforts—or to reach out directly with questions, ideas, or interest in getting
involved.
Contact: Foundation@FanwoodLibrary.org
