As the year ends, many people support nonprofits that benefit their communities, and the Library plays a crucial role in aiding these organizations. Jay Lyman, who oversees the Library’s services for nonprofits, highlights an increase in nonprofit users, growing from 8% in 2024 to 14% in 2025. Nonprofits engaging with the Library focus on areas like job training, education, and mental health services. A notable example is Community Carrot, a Seattle nonprofit aimed at helping young adults break the cycle of poverty through entrepreneurship. Executive Director Chris Rhodes emphasizes the importance of the Library’s Foundation Directory Online (FDO), which provides free access to funding opportunities. Community Carrot has successfully utilized this resource to secure a competitive grant, enabling Rhodes to become their first full-time executive director. The Library offers various support services, including free workshops on grant writing and business planning, virtual appointments with librarians for research assistance, and legal consultations. These resources help level the playing field for small nonprofits, fostering partnerships that enhance their impact in the community.
