Founded in 1989, the mission of the St. Louis Public Library Foundation is to support the Library's programs and services through advocacy, fundraising and by building relationships with others who share a passion for the Library's work and to conduct a major capital campaign to support the renovation and modernization of Central Library–designed by American Architect Cass Gilbert and built in 1912. In addition, the Foundation operates the Library's membership program, the FRIENDS of the St. Louis Public Library.