Thanks to our supporters, Gerber/Hart Library and Archives provides free access to thousands of titles in our library, preserves LGTBQ+ history in Chicago and the Midwest, and hosts free or low-cost community events throughout the year. We are a hub for research for scholars and artists across the country and around the world, and a destination for student groups interested in learning more about the people and organizations who make our communities thrive. As a non-profit organization, donations from individuals are vital to continue the day-to-day operations and further the important mission of Gerber/Hart.
Please consider becoming a sustaining supporter of Gerber/Hart by joining the “Friends of Henry and Pearl”! When you give $10 or more a month, we will send you a brand new Gerber/Hart Library Card. Whether you borrow books from us regularly or support us from afar, your Gerber/Hart Library Card will be a reminder that you are making a difference in providing free access to books and the preservation of LGBTQ+ history.
In addition to the Library Card, Friends of Henry and Pearl get a few extra thanks for their sustaining support:
Become a Friend of Henry and Pearl now by clicking here, selecting your gift amount, and choosing “monthly” as the frequency.
Thank you!
Helpful FAQs:
How do I sign up?
Just go to gerberhart.org/donatenow, choose the “monthly” option in the Frequency field, and use your credit/debit card or bank account to donate. You’ll automatically be charged once a month, and receive a thank-you confirmation email when that happens. That’s it — you can set it and forget it, knowing you’re helping sustain Gerber/Hart’s mission! And if things change, you can cancel anytime by emailing michaelrashid@gerberhart.org.
Do I need a Library Card to check out books?
No! Anyone age 13 and over can register as a borrower for free at Gerber/Hart. The Library Card is a fun way to show that you’re a “Friend of Henry and Pearl” – think of it as a “fan club” card. If you happen to have it with you on your next visit to Gerber/Hart, you can show us your signed card at the desk so we can pull up your library account. Whether you have a card or not, it will not impact your ability to borrow materials.
I’m already a recurring donor; do I need to do anything else?
No! All current recurring donors will automatically become a “Friend of Henry and Pearl” and receive all related perks and thanks.
Can I donate anonymously?
Yes! Just select that option when you donate, and your name will not appear on the website or other places of public recognition.
I just want to give and support the mission of Gerber/Hart, but don’t want any special perks or recognition. Should I still give monthly?
Yes, and we will be incredibly grateful to count you as a sustaining supporter! You can specify that you’d like to “give only, no perks needed” in the comments sections when you donate, or send an email to Michael at michaelrashid@gerberhart.org to let us know.
Do I need to give by debit/ credit card/ automatic bank transfer on the website to become a “Friend of Henry and Pearl”?
Honestly, it’s more efficient for our small staff to process and acknowledge donations when made through the website – and it cuts down on the number of checks you have to write, as well as postage! But we welcome all donations, including checks.
Can I become a “Friend of Henry and Pearl” with a one-time donation, rather than a monthly donation?
Yes! If you give a one-time donation of $120 or more, we will happily count you as a “Friend of Henry and Pearl”