Transforming Historic Heritage into a Vibrant Creative Hub

Partnering with the City of Lincoln to reactivate the historic Carnegie Library into a dynamic center for clay arts, education, and community connection.

Lincoln's story has always been deeply rooted in the clay arts and architectural terra cotta. Completed in 1909 with building materials from Gladding, McBean, the historic Carnegie Library at 5th and F Streets served our community for over a century. Today, construction is moving forward to transform this cherished landmark into a fully equipped, welcoming home for artists of every experienced level.

Zero Overhead Fee Disclosure

100% of Your Investment Goes Directly to LCAC. We use Zeffy, a 100% free fundraising platform for nonprofits. Unlike traditional donation platforms, 0% of your gift is lost to processing or platform fees, ensuring 100% of your contribution directly funds our programs, equipment, and launch operations.

Proven Momentum & Financial Credibility

Building improvements and major physical upgrades are fully funded and underway in partnership with the City of Lincoln. Because capital construction is secured, your philanthropic contribution goes directly toward funding program development, equipment, and operations ahead of our 2027 Grand Opening.

• $275,000 Public Investment committed by the City of Lincoln for building upgrades and equipment.

• $30,000 Early Private Contributions secured from visionary local donors to fund project development.

• $75,000 Philanthropic Campaign Goal to establish full operational runway for our first three years.

• Feasibility Confirmed Completed by AMS Planning & Research (2025), validating strong community support and long-term financial sustainability.

What the Lincoln Clay Arts Center Will Offer

• Fully Equipped Studios & Workshop: Open-concept, affordable workspace for emerging and established clay artists to build, mentor, and collaborate.

• Classes for All Experience Levels: Hands-on instruction spanning wheel-throwing, clay fabrication, and advanced glazing techniques.

• Exhibitions & Cultural Hub: Dedicated gallery space displaying contemporary studio art alongside historic Gladding, McBean terra cotta artifacts.

• Inclusive Community Outreach: Accessible workshops designed to break down cost barriers and welcome underserved community members into the creative process.

Project Timeline

• 2025: Feasibility Study Completed by AMS Planning & Research

• 2026: Facility Renovations Begin & Startup Fundraising Campaign Launched

• 2027: Official Grand Opening

Call to Action: Be There at the Beginning

Help bring downtown Lincoln's most cherished landmark back to life. Your support as a Friend or Founding Partner provides the critical runway needed to launch accessible arts programming, support local artists, and welcome our community through the doors.