Support the Gordon Memorial Library

A Community Treasure Since 1979

Dear Friends of the Gordon Memorial Library,

Since 1979, the Virgil & Josephine Gordon Memorial Library has stood as a foundation of learning, community pride and connection in Sealy. Nestled in the heart of our historic town, we are a truly unique institution: a privately funded library committed to serving the public.

Unlike many libraries, we are not city- or county-funded. While we gratefully receive support from the City of Sealy, Austin County, and several local foundations, our primary source of funding has always been the generous endowment established by the Gordon family. Thanks to their vision, we’ve been able to grow and serve the community for decades—without placing a burden on taxpayers.

But generosity, like a garden, must be tended if it’s to flourish.

In recent years, we’ve revitalized our beloved library—upgrading facilities, expanding services, and reimagining our role in the community. Today, we offer far more than books and basic services. In addition to printing, scanning, and faxing, we provide free notary services and one-on-one help for those navigating today’s digital world—support that can make someone more employable and confident.

We’re proud to be a welcoming, hands-on resource for our patrons.

This summer alone, our 8-week youth program drew more than 100 children per event. Where we once saw 10 patrons a week, we now welcome nearly 1,300 visitors every month. The library is no longer a quiet corner—it’s a vibrant hub.

We’re meeting people where they are: offering job search support, computer access, engaging children’s programs, and a safe space for all ages. We are a literacy hub, a technology bridge, and a gathering place for our community.

But here’s the reality:

It costs approximately $210,000 a year to run the library—covering staff, utilities, insurance, materials, programming, and upkeep. We receive about $35,000 in city and county funding, and $95,000 from local foundations. The Gordon Endowment helps fill the gap, but at our current pace, it could be exhausted in just four years.

To protect the endowment and secure our future, we are launching a campaign to raise at least $80,000 annually.

This is not a one-person lift. It’s a community effort. That’s why we’ve introduced a Donor Tree in our lobby—celebrating those who help us grow:

Recognition Levels:

🦋 $500 – Butterfly
🍃 $1,000 – Bronze Leaf
🥈 $5,000 – Silver Leaf
🥇 $10,000 – Gold Leaf
🌿 $15,000 – Branch
🪨 $25,000 – Rock

All donations are fully tax-deductible, and we would be honored to be part of your annual charitable giving. If you’d like to meet with a board member to learn more, we’d be happy to share our vision with you.

Some believe libraries are relics of the past—we strongly disagree with this thought. Stop by, meet our staff, feel the energy, and experience the Gordon Memorial Library. This isn’t just a building full of books—it’s a living, breathing community.

Thank you for believing in libraries. Thank you for believing in Sealy.

In Gratitude,

The Board of the Gordon Memorial Library

Terry Lynn Arnold, Chairman
Katie Statham, Treasurer
Donna Mikulenka, Secretary
Rachel Zwahr, At-Large 

Through shared vision, resources and commitment to excellence, the Virgil & Josephine Gordon Memorial Library will accomplish its mission of enhancing the quality and scope of public library service to the citizens of the city of Sealy and the surrounding area.  The Library will provide materials and services to help community residents obtain information meeting their personal, educational, and professional needs.  Special emphasis is placed on supporting students at all academic levels and on stimulating young children’s interests and appreciation for reading and learning.