Eckhart Library Foundation

08/13/2026

An exciting announcement on this dreary Thursday!

08/06/2026

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ellen England—a friend, donor, historian, and lifelong believer in the power of libraries.

Ellen’s connection to Eckhart Public Library was especially meaningful. Some of her artistic photos grace the walls of the library. In researching Army Guy, Red Cross Gal, the story of her parents’ World War II service told through more than 500 of their letters, Ellen made extensive use of Eckhart Public Library and the Willennar Genealogy Center. We were honored to celebrate that story with Ellen during the Foundation’s 2024 program commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Ellen and her husband, Bruce, were also among the first Foundation supporters to join our Cornerstone Community, making a lasting commitment to the future of Eckhart Public Library.

We are humbled and deeply grateful that Ellen’s family has named the Eckhart Library Foundation for memorial gifts in her honor. It is a privilege to help carry forward the legacy of someone who so deeply valued libraries, history, and the preservation of our community’s stories.

Our hearts are with Bruce, Ellen’s family, and all who knew and loved her.

Ellen’s obituary: https://www.fellerandclark.com/obituary/Ellen-England

06/11/2026

The best part of hosting the photobooth at the Friends of Eckhart Public Library, Inc. Strawberries Around the Fountain last week was seeing so many smiling faces! Take a look through the photos, tag your friends and family, and share your favorites with us.

A huge thank you to Classic City Events for providing the photobooth experience and to the incredibly talented Eckhart Public Library who created the fun photo props and backdrop that made these memories possible. We hope you enjoyed taking home your free photo print as much as we enjoyed seeing everyone strike a pose!

At the Eckhart Library Foundation, moments like these remind us why we do what we do. We work to ensure that Eckhart Public Library remains a place for all—forever. Through on-going support for the library's historic campus and long-term sustainability, we're helping preserve a community gathering place that serves generations.

We loved celebrating with you and can't wait to do it again next year! 🍓❤️

06/11/2026

06/03/2026

Stop by the Eckhart Library Foundation booth at 🍓Strawberries Around the Fountain🍓 at Eckhart Public Library for a FREE family photo and take home a complimentary 4x6 print! We're proud to support the Friends of Eckhart Public Library, Inc. and this beloved community tradition. We can't wait to see your smiles!

05/06/2026

Thank you for your support Auburn Classic Noon Lions Club! Sign up for their golf outing and support the Community Gathers Here project with Eckhart Public Library.

04/13/2026

We were grateful to gather last week for a special Eckhart Library Foundation tea—an afternoon centered on connection, shared history, and appreciation for the community that continues to sustain the library.

Guests enjoyed a guided tea tasting, learned more about the rich connection between the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum and the library, and helped select the 2026 Signature Tea Blend.

We were also pleased to share an update on the Community Gathers Here initiative. To date, $32,180 has been committed to the project, and we were honored to present a check to Eckhart Public Library for $24,180 in gifts received so far, made possible through the generosity of this community.

This experience was made possible through the thoughtful contributions of many:

• Lori Berndt of The Olive Twist, for leading our tea tasting
• Brandon Anderson and the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum for hosting and sharing their expertise
• Nagel's GardenHouse for the beautiful flowers
• Betty Conrad, Susan Buttermore, Margaret Buttermore, and Janet Nagel for the stunning décor
• Students from Impact Institute for preparing the refreshments
• And Jim Farlow for bringing Charles Eckhart to life as our special guest

We are especially thankful for those who joined us. Your presence and continued support ensure the library remains a place for all, now and for generations to come.