Budget/Funding

Budget/Funding

One Book programs have been offered in Maine at a cost ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. The ambitions of the program can be geared to the available resources, and actual out of pocket expenses can be kept low by enlisting volunteers and in kind contributions.

Mapping out a budget and identifying funding needs is an important first step toward rounding up financial support. Below are some general guidelines and resource suggestions.

  • Generally, the greatest portion of the budget is allocated to book acquisition. Estimate how many copies will be required, and of that number, what fraction will be added to the circulating collection, provided for discussion facilitators, given away, or sold.
  • Advertising and promotion are absolutely necessary, although the cost can be startlingly high. Some One Book organizers have partnered with local print shops or newspapers for discounted or pro bono services to keep these expenses down. Remember, if your community members don’t know about the program, they won’t participate!
  • Design costs can also be a major expense, especially the first year, but it is a worthwhile investment because well designed materials can be updated and edited for subsequent programs, particularly if they are designed with this in mind. A professional graphic designer or talented volunteer may be willing to donate his or her services; or with appropriate hardware and software, this can sometimes be accomplished by staff, in-house. The same holds true for creating and maintaining a web site. Some programs host a competition with a modest cash prize for the winning logo, poster or bookmark designs.
  • Another typical expense is for programs and presenters. Speaker fees, materials, refreshments, space rentals can all add up, but they are often donated.
  • Friends of the Library often underwrite a substantial portion of the cost of One Book programs.
  • Possible Grant opportunities: Maine Humanities Council ::: Friends of Maine Libraries ::: Maine Community Foundation

Keep a record of your income and expenditures as you go, to assist in evaluating and future planning. If possible, log staff time and a description and estimated value of in-kind contributions.