Grant disbursements to the Appleton Public Library from the Appleton Library Foundation have reached $100,000 annually for the first time in the Foundation's history. Grants are issued in five categories: Materials, Technology and Equipment, Programs, Promotions and Marketing and Special Projects. The grants have been used to create new media collections, provide public access to the Internet, and bring authors and musicians to the library for performances.

The Appleton Library Foundation was founded as a nonprofit corporation in 1989 to enhance the services, collections and programs of the library beyond public tax dollars. The Foundation's endowment fund has reached $1.8 million. The current Board President is Joyce Bytof. Bill Hodgkiss serves as Treasurer.