$480,000 bequeathed to Red Deer Public Library

October 20, 2003

The Red Deer Public Library Board is pleased to announce that Margaret and John Dickson, Red Deer residents and long-time library supporters, have remembered the library in their will. The Library will invest this generous bequest - $480,000 from the estate of Margaret and John Dickson - in enduring legacies that benefit all citizens of Red Deer.

Part of the Dickson Bequest will be dedicated to enhancing library facilities. Red Deer Public Library will match these dollars with grants or with service club or corporate sponsorship. The rest will be invested, and will be spent each year on special programs, services or collections that reflect our benefactors' interests.

Margaret and John Dickson taught in schools around Alberta. A childless couple, they devoted their energy and money to a variety of worthwhile pursuits. The Dicksons were avid library users, and in recognition of the importance of libraries to youth, they established a charitable remainder trust during their lifetimes, allowing them to shelter a portion of their investment income. Margaret Dickson died in 1999, and John Dickson died in 2003. Their generosity will live on in continuing programs at the library and through new spaces that will bear their name.

The Dickson Bequest announcement is timed to celebrate Alberta Library Week, which takes place October 19 - 25, 2003. For more information on Alberta Library Week, go to http://www.visityourlibrary.net

For more information on the Dickson Bequest, or on making gifts or bequests to Red Deer Public Library, contact:

Red Deer Public Library is a registered charity and can provide tax receipts based on the value of gifts.