Surprising $10 Million Donation Benefits Branch Libraries

Mary Bailey's beloved 58th Street Library. Photo: Sean ChristopherMary Bailey was a quiet, modest woman. She lived a seemingly average life, graduating from Bank Street College, teaching pre-school for a few years, visiting her beloved 58th Street Library regularly, and purposely remaining under-the-radar. One would never guess that she was actually a multi-millionaire. Bailey decided to leave the Library some money, no surprise to those who knew how much she loved her local branch. What was surprising to many was the amount - an incredible $10 million, which will go toward collections, programs, and other services that help millions of New Yorkers; half of the donation is specifically earmarked for the branches that Bailey loved.

Find out more about Bailey's life and her love for NYPL

The New York Times: 

After Modest Life, Huge Gift to 2 Charities

Leave your legacy at the Library by making a planned gift

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