The Spies Library Foundation, Inc. is attempting to collect one million pennies.  This is part of the Spies Library Foundation's Centennial Drive to enhance endowments for the Spies Public Library in honor of the Library's 100th Anniversary.  The Spies Library Foundation, which was started in 1993, has played a key role in the expanding programs at the Spies Public Library.

Containers (empty plastic gallon jugs) will be placed in the Library and throughout the community inviting people to donate pennies.  Silver change and dollar bills are also welcome.  They will be changed into pennies before tallying.  About every 6 to 8 weeks, the money in the jugs will be counted and the silver coins and bills converted to pennies.  After the money is tallied, the pennies will be dumped into a large box, which is located in the lobby at the Spies Public Library.  The box is designed with the proper dimensions to occupy a million pennies.  The wooden box has a hinged Plexiglas top with a padlock, and a porthole cut in front so kids can look at the pennies.  When the box is full the weight of 1,000,000 pennies will be over 6,000 pounds.  Each time the pennies are counted, the new total will be calculated on a chart.

You can help by depositing you coins in containers at the Library and throughout the community.  When we have collected one million pennies, we will have $10,000, which will be invested in the Spies Library Foundation endowment fund.  This fund is designed to enhance the Spies Public Library by supporting children's and cultural programs, technology, grants and new services.  We will keep you informed in the local media as to the progress of this project.  You can also stop at the Spies Public Library and see for yourself how we're progressing.  "Pennies Make Dreams Come True" and everyone in the community can help with this project to insure a successful 2nd Century for the Spies Public Library.

If you would like more information on the Million Pennies Fund you can contact the library by phone at 906-863-3911 or 906-863-2900 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Contributions may also be sent to the Spies Library Foundation, 940 First St., Menominee, MI  49858.

Total Pennies Collected Through May 6, 2013