Library Foundation dinner raises nearly $500,000, a fundraising record

The West Palm Beach Library Foundation's 'Food for Thought' dinner on Nov. 8 raised nearly $500,000 for Mandel Public Library programs and featured a conversation with author Daniel Silva and CNN correspondent Jamie Gangel.

The West Palm Beach Library Foundation held its annual "Food for Thought" fundraising dinner on Nov. 8 at the Beach Club. The event raised nearly $500,000 for community programming at the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach. The evening included a conversation between author Daniel Silva and CNN special correspondent Jamie Gangel. Melissa Sullivan served as chairwoman for the third time and more than 200 guests attended. Key details: - Event: "Food for Thought" dinner, Nov. 8, at the Beach Club. - Amount raised: nearly $500,000, a record for the foundation. - Featured speakers: Daniel Silva and Jamie Gangel. - Format and attendance: cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner with 28 hosted tables, and more than 200 attendees. - Use of proceeds: support for Mandel Public Library programs such as afterschool homework help, summer learning, job readiness and adult education. Summary: The record funds will support library programs that aim to transform lives through education and services for children and adults. The foundation emphasized conversation and community engagement as central parts of the evening. Undetermined at this time.