Small Town. Big Goal.
Fully Funded.
Proving Big Campaigns Can Work in Rural Communities.
Project Type: Historic Renovation & Expansion
Stanley, Wisconsin | Population: 3,600
Our Services Provided
Planning & Feasibility Study + Capital Campaign
Campaign Highlights
Campaign Goal: $5 Million
Funds Raised: ~$5.2 Million
Campaign Duration: 14 Months
Public Funding: $4.2 Million State Grant
Private Support: $1 Million in local giving
Outcome: Fully Funded Project + Construction Underway
Groundbreaking: Attended by Gov. Tony Evers (watch)
The Opportunity
The D.R. Moon Memorial Library, built in 1901 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, had long served as a vital community resource - but the building could no longer meet modern needs.
The facility was overcrowded, inaccessible, and limited in its ability to offer programming. There was no dedicated space for teens, limited room for children’s services, and barriers to accessibility for many residents.
At the same time, expectations for what a library could provide had evolved. The community needed a space that could support technology access, learning, and connection - from early childhood education to workforce development and even telehealth access.
The challenge was clear: preserve a historic landmark while transforming it into a modern, fully functional community hub.
Our Approach
Finding Success
Baker Street Consulting Group conducted a planning and feasibility study followed by a comprehensive capital campaign.
We partnered closely with the Library Director, Campaign Committee, and City of Stanley to:
Build early momentum and community confidence
Structure a realistic and achievable campaign strategy
Equip volunteer leaders with the tools to succeed
Develop clear, compelling messaging to engage donors
As the campaign progressed, we also helped align public funding, private philanthropy, and community leadership - ensuring a coordinated path toward full funding and construction.
This campaign succeeded by combining strong public investment with a highly strategic and community-driven fundraising effort.
Key factors included:
A $4.2 million state grant that created early momentum and credibility
A creative bonding strategy allowing the City to advance construction while donor commitments repaid financing over time
Broad-based local support from individuals, businesses, and community leaders
Clear alignment between public funding and private philanthropy
Consistent, visible engagement that kept the community invested throughout the campaign
The Results
$5.2 million raised in approximately 14 months
Fully funded project combining public and private investment
Preservation and modernization of a historic community landmark
Strong local ownership and pride in the project
Public groundbreaking with statewide visibility and support
The new library
Renovation of the original 1901 historic library
New 8,416 sq. ft. addition, nearly tripling the size of the facility
Fully ADA-accessible building
Dedicated spaces for teens, children, and community use
Expanded technology access, including high-speed internet and telehealth capability
Flexible meeting and programming spaces serving all age groups