MLA/DLACon2024

Learn best practices for establishing or growing programming and engagement initiatives through the sustainable public-private funding model of the "Concerts from the Library of Congress" series, which celebrates 100 years in 2024/2025. A program of the Library of Congress Music Division, the series was founded in 1925 by an act of Congress through the leadership and philanthropic support of Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge (1864-1953). Over the past 100 years, the series has been an important avenue for the Library of Congress to engage with the American and global public through radio broadcasts, digital media, commissioning of new works, and live events in Washington, DC. This presentation features speakers from the Music Division's leadership and the Office of the Librarian who will provide an overview of the history of the series, how its major supporters have cultivated a legacy of philanthropy, how the series has enriched the Library's collections, and how the Music Division leverages private funding to advance its mission. Attendees will also learn tactics for developing strategic institutional partnerships that strengthen engagement with specific cultural communities.