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Virginia Ritchey’s story with the library didn’t begin with a grand gesture... it began with $10.
As a devoted visitor to the Karl Road Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library, Virginia found more than just books on the shelves. She found a place of connection, learning, and kindness. Inspired by her experiences and the care she received from staff, she made her first gift to the branch in 1995.
Over the years, Virginia continued to give to Karl Road Branch. Virginia and her daughter Farrell, who lived with a disability, were frequent library visitors and deeply appreciated the warm welcome they always received. Sometimes her gifts were $20, sometimes $500 and always with the same intention to support a place that had given so much to her.
Then, in 2008, Virginia made a decision that would extend her impact far beyond her lifetime. She established a planned gift to benefit the library, ensuring that the branch she loved would continue to serve others for years to come.
Donna Zuiderweg, Chief of Service Design & Engagement , reflected on Virginia’s generosity. "Virginia saw every journey—whether out in the world or within the library—as a chance to learn something new. She hoped the library would give others the same sense of possibility that meant so much to her."
When asked what inspired her, Virginia pointed to the simple, powerful experiences she had at Karl Road. It was the welcoming environment, the helpful staff, and the sense that the library truly mattered.
Virginia’s generosity continues to inspire the Karl Road Branch.
Through the library’s partnership with Cristo Rey Columbus High School, Hawa became an intern in the library’s Development office. She has a dream of becoming an attorney and so the Development team made it possible for her to observe a trial and meet legal professionals. These connections led to her current internship with a law firm.
Columbus Metropolitan Library is adding one more point of access for customers: a pop-up library made possible by Battelle. Check out the full story here.
Columbus Metropolitan Library’s School Delivery program and the Parsons Branch visited Stewart Elementary, one of 16 Columbus City Schools served by School Delivery, during teacher conferences. Students received a free take-home book thanks to supporters like you!
This Hilltop Branch customer received help from Spanish-speaking staff at the Community Support Center to file for worker’s compensation. Staff helped him update his resume and create an Indeed profile; he landed some interviews and was offered a position.
