Meet Elsbeth Howe, SPLF Executive Director

I am pleased to introduce myself to you!

My name is Elsbeth Howe, and I joined the Stillwater Public Library Foundation as the executive director at the end of September. I am so happy to be here.

Whenever I walk into a library, I know that there will be many book choices, that help is readily available, and that there are programs and activities available to enlarge my point of view. Libraries are special democratic places, open to all and inclusive. As I begin my role at the Stillwater Public Library Foundation, I look forward to collaborating with the Stillwater community to increase resources for the Stillwater Public Library.

And as you know, the Stillwater Public Library is an exceptional library. The Stillwater Public Library is a vibrant hub of learning, innovation and connection, empowering individuals of all ages and backgrounds to pursue their dreams, expand their knowledge, and engage in lifelong discovery. The passion and dedication of the Stillwater Public Library trustees, Foundation and Friends board members, library staff, donors and volunteers is nothing short of extraordinary.

So far, I have been getting to know the Stillwater Public Library Foundation community and meeting with library staff, donors, former board members and trustees. Moving forward I am excited to meet more of the Stillwater Public Library community, as well as business and community leaders. I am eager to learn more about how the Stillwater Public Library Foundation can partner with donors to achieve the library’s mission to connect members of our community with the power of knowledge, the possibility of new ideas, and the opportunity to engage with one another.

2024 Objectives

The Stillwater Public Library Foundation has several objectives for 2024. In the upcoming year we expect to raise public awareness about the Stillwater Public Library Foundation, and ensure that there are many ways for supporters to get involved. This will include new and expanded communications such as newsletters and social media. We will develop a comprehensive fundraising strategy to expand the reach and impact of the Stillwater Public Library. With this, we will establish a legacy society, encouraging donors to consider including the Stillwater Public Library Foundation in their estate planning. In addition, we will review and develop ethical and transparent governance processes to ensure public trust.

Work Experience

A little bit about me, the majority of my career has been in higher education advocacy and development. Previously I was the executive director of a nonprofit organization, Students United, that advocates for Minnesota state university students at the Minnesota system, state, and federal levels. Most recently I was the development director for the Inver Hills Community College Foundation. At Inver Hills I raised money to support college scholarships for students and college academic and student life programs. I have been on several nonprofit boards, and also served on my city council. I love libraries and learning, and this year I completed my MA degree in philanthropy from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Contact Information

The Stillwater Public Library is a true gem. I look forward to working with you to support the Stillwater Public Library. Please give me a call at (651) 504-2350 or email me at splf@stillwaterlibraryfoundation.org. I would love to connect with you.