Get answers to frequently asked questions about giving by clicking on the links below.
- Why does the UNLV Libraries need private support?
- Why should I give to the UNLV Libraries through the UNLV Foundation?
- How much am I expected to contribute?
- Will my company or organization match my gift?
- What is an endowment fund?
- What endowment-naming gift opportunities are available at the UNLV Libraries?
- May I designate how my gift will be used?
- What is the difference between unrestricted and restricted gifts?
- Are all gifts tax-deductible?
- How will I be recognized for my gift?
1. Why does the UNLV Libraries need private support?
Appropriated funds from the Nevada Legislature support the most basic needs of the UNLV Libraries. However, as UNLV has grown, the University Libraries has pioneered new methods of reaching, connecting with, and engaging learners. In addition, as the level of research on campus increases, the University Libraries must enhance the resources it provides for researchers. As with all great public universities, private funds are essential to help the library serve as a resource to the campus and community.
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2. Why should I give to the UNLV Libraries through the UNLV Foundation?
Gifts to the UNLV Libraries are made through the UNLV Foundation. The Foundation�s nonprofit 501(c)(3) structure legally protects the private nature of the gifts and the donor's anonymity when requested.
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3. How much am I expected to contribute?
Contributions of all sizes are important and are gratefully accepted. The size of the gift you make is entirely up to you. Every charitable dollar the Libraries receives has the potential for exponential impact as it helps the UNLV Libraries support the entire community.
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4. Will my company or organization match my gift to the UNLV Foundation?
Many companies offer employees � and sometimes spouses and retirees � a matching-gift benefit that doubles or triples their donations to UNLV. Please visit your human resources office to learn more about matching-gift donations.
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5. What is an endowment fund?
An endowment fund is built through investment of financial donations that are given with the stipulation that only the income earned by the assets can be used. Since an endowment's principal is never spent, these funds create financial stability, allowing the UNLV Libraries to be less dependent on less predictable sources of revenue. UNLV Libraries’ endowment funds are professionally invested and managed by the UNLV Foundation.
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6. What naming gift opportunities are available at the UNLV Libraries?
From named spaces to collection endowments to student success programs, named funds in the Libraries offer donors an opportunity to associate the name of a family or individual with a project or program of enduring worth. Naming opportunities start at $500 for a study table and chairs.
Endowment opportunities at the UNLV Libraries encompass a wide selection of needs from undergraduate and graduate initiatives to collections, to special programs and centers such as the Center for Gaming Research and the Oral History Center. The minimum level to establish a named endowment is $25,000.
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7. May I designate how my gift will be used?
Yes! You may designate support to one or more programs or projects. You may also choose to leave your gift unrestricted, which enables the Dean of University Libraries to support the areas of greatest need. Many donors do both with multiple gifts.
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8. What is the difference between unrestricted and restricted gifts?
Unrestricted gifts provide a source of funds to the UNLV Libraries that are not limited to specific program uses. These gifts are used where needed most throughout the Libraries and may provide resources to enrich collections, maintain innovative programs and services, and enhance facilities.
Restricted gifts are earmarked for specific purposes chosen by the donor, such as a specific program or collection (i.e. Special Collections, or the Undergraduate Peer Research Coaches).
Although both unrestricted and restricted gifts are welcome, unrestricted gifts are of critical importance because they allow the Libraries to provide funding in the areas of greatest need to meet unexpected challenges, take advantage of unique opportunities, and meet the many day-to-day challenges of modern research libraries.
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9. Are all gifts tax-deductible?
Gifts made to the Libraries through the UNLV Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult with your tax attorney or financial advisor to determine if your gift is tax-deductible.
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10. How will I be recognized for my gift?
The UNLV Libraries is pleased to recognize donors in a variety of ways including honor rolls in printed and online publications, and membership in societies to recognize cumulative giving and estate gifts. Donors also will receive special correspondence from the Dean and other Libraries staff, invitations to events, and updates through Libraries communications materials such as newsletters. Annual contributions of $1,000 or more are recognized through membership in the Dean’s Associates.
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