“Books are the treasured wealth of the world and the fit inheritance of generations and nations.
– Henry David Thoreau ”
The items that comprise our Special Collections are individual time capsules, as well as first editions and earliest printings of novels. Without conservation and preservation, the treasures and antiques of the collection are at risk of deterioration. Whether you wish to donate to aid in general preservation efforts, or select an individual work, there are ample opportunities to get involved.
Donations to this fund are essential to the ongoing operations of the library, with the flexibility to meet our most pressing needs. The engaging speaker events, musical performances and programming that we all love, are made possible and further developed by your generous support. Your gift will expand opportunities and help shape an ever relevant intellectual and cultural space for members and visitors alike.
Endowment & Planned Giving
Through planned giving or contributions to our endowment, you help secure the future of the South’s oldest cultural institution, sustaining its mission and expanding its intellectual impact. The history and treasures housed within the Charleston Library Society also provide unique opportunities for planned gifts and dedications. For these extraordinary expressions of generosity, we warmly invite a conversation to explore your goals and ideas. Please email our Director of Development and Membership, Jennifer Comer at (843) 723-9912 x 106. We are honored by your interest, thank you.
A Worthwhile Mission
The story of the Library Society is one of gritty survival, from the devastating hurricane of 1753, to fires and earthquakes, wars and economic depression and even a global pandemic. Yet we are still here, evidence of the relevance we provide on a daily basis. Your generosity ensures that future generations continue to enjoy the Library as we do.
The Library Society has served as a cultural, intellectual and social oasis in the historic district for over a hundred years. What makes it extraordinary is the magic that takes place within its walls. Our Main Reading Room provides a home where people congregate to share ideas, music, books and conversation–a home that offers intellectual and cultural feast served up by leading thinkers. We have a rich history, begun over 275 years ago by young people who cared about the written word and the learning process.
Now it is our responsibility to preserve it.
PLANNED GIFTS
Planned gifts are a meaningful way to ensure the Library Society continues to flourish and inspire generations to come. By including the Library Society in your estate plans, you create a legacy that sustains the long-term financial health and mission of our historic library. Options include making a bequest or naming the Library Society as a beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance policy. Your financial or legal advisors can guide you through the potential tax advantages of these giving opportunities.
Those who notify us of their estate plan commitment will be welcomed as founding members of our legacy group, the 1748 Legacy Society. Members are recognized on our website and in publications such as The Reader Annual Report ensuring lasting recognition of your generosity.
MEMORIAL AND HONOR GIFTS
Memorial and honor gifts provide a thoughtful way to celebrate or remember someone special. You may choose to give in memory of a loved one who cherished the library and the humanities, or in honor of a dedicated member—perhaps in recognition of a birthday, anniversary, or other milestone. When a gift is made, we share your generosity with the honoree or the family of the person remembered. All memorial and honor gifts are also specially acknowledged in our Annual Report.
RARE MATERIAL GIFTS
If you own rare books or materials that you believe may align with the Library Society’s areas of focus, we would be delighted to learn more. Please contact our Director of Collections, Lisa Hayes, at LHayes@charlestonlibrarysociety.org or 843-723-9912 x110 to discuss your potential gift.
BOOKS AND OTHER ITEMS
Due to limited space, we are unable to accommodate large donations of books or miscellaneous items. However, if you have ten or fewer titles in excellent condition, we gratefully welcome them for our Annual Book Sale. Proceeds from the sale directly support the Library Society and its mission.
2026 Tax Legislation Update
Changes to the tax law in 2026 may affect your charitable giving.
What’s New:
- Non-itemizers: Deduct up to $1,000 (for individuals) or $2,000 (for couples) for gifts without itemizing.
- Itemizers: Must give at least 0.5% of Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) to receive a charitable deduction.
- Top earners: Starting in 2026, the deduction benefit will be capped at 35¢ per $1 (was 37¢)
What’s Remaining:
- Tax brackets: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 35%, 37% tax rates
- Standard deduction: $15,750 (individuals) / $31,500 (married couples) in 2025, inflation-adjusted.
- Cash gift limit: Deduct up to 60% of AGI if you itemize
- Estate tax exemption: $15M per individual, indexed annually.
Key Details:
- Consider accelerating gifts in 2025.
- Non-cash gifts may be more advantageous.
- Always consult your advisor for tax-smart strategies.
Thank you for your generous support of the Charleston Library Society. Your gift makes a meaningful impact, helping to shape the future of this vital cultural landmark. We look forward to the next 275 years—and beyond—of adventure, discovery, and lifelong learning. To donate online, please click here.
If you’d prefer to mail your donation, please send it to: Charleston Library Society, Attn: Heather Rivet, 164 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
We also accept donations through:
- Donor Advised Funds
- Securities, Stocks, etc
- Corporate Matching Programs