Mark your calendars!
The 22nd Annual Grape Expectations Gala—our signature fundraising event benefiting the Long Beach Public Library—will take place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Billie Jean King Main Library.
2025 Gala Co-chairs
Mario Cordero, CEO, Port of Long Beach
Bob Foster, Former Mayor, City of Long Beach
2025 Honorees
Clark Construction Group
Library Leadership Award
M. Lissette Flores
Durnin Family Award
Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring:
- A gourmet dinner with perfectly paired fine wines
- Exciting live and silent auctions
- A gathering of community leaders and library champions
Your support helps fund vital free library programs, including early literacy, STEAM workshops, job search resources, and more.
If you or your business are interested in sponsorship opportunities, we would love to hear from you! Download our 2025 Sponsorship Package, and contact our team at events@lbplfoundation.org.
We are also seeking auction donations to make this event a success! If you or your business would like to contribute an item or experience to our auction, please reach out—we’d love to showcase your support. Download our 2025 Auction Packet to learn more.
Relive the Magic of 2024
The Long Beach Public Library Foundation celebrated its 21st Annual Grape Expectations gala on October 6, 2024, at the Billie Jean King Main Library. With nearly 425 attendees, the event raised over $560,000 in support of the Foundation’s fundraising and advocacy efforts on behalf of the 12 Long Beach public libraries.