Thurber House in Columbus seeks $200,000 in donations to remain open as literary hub

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Thurber House, a nonprofit literary arts hub and historic landmark in Columbus, faces financial uncertainty as it marks its 40th anniversary.

A pop-up message on the organization's website begins, “It’s time to say it: Thurber House is facing uncertainty — and we need your help.” The plea states that the nonprofit aims to raise at least $200,000 to ensure its doors stay open by launching its “Future 40” campaign.

Executive Director Laurie Lathan shared in an email with NBC4 that “the effects of the pandemic, the shift in the aging demographics, rate of inflation, and increased competition of author events in the city" created the "perfect storm" of economic challenges.

The “Future 40” campaign web page further details what led Thurber House to this point. Specifically, attendance numbers, while gradually recovering post-pandemic, remain below pre-pandemic levels, straining finances. Also, increased mental and emotional health needs among young participants have added pressure, with Thurber House serving as a critical safe space for self-expression. Additionally, limited resources have forced the organization to operate with a reduced staff of just four, marking the first layoffs in its history.

"If Thurber House doesn’t reach its campaign goal, we will be forced to make additional cuts to adult and children’s programs that do not generate enough revenue, reduce our museum hours, or close our doors altogether," wrote Lathan. "Our small staff is working around the clock to limit disruptions to our programs and operations, and we cannot emphasize enough how much the community’s support and kindness has meant to us during this time."

Despite the challenges, the team remains hopeful. If the fundraising campaign is successful, plans include expanding children’s and teen writing programs, reimagining adult workshops, and broadening its impact in schools and senior living communities.

While Thurber House's financial position might have reached a dire point, the community has rallied to aid the Columbus institution. As of this writing, donors have helped the literary hub reach roughly a third of its $200,000 goal.

"We are receiving a swell of support from those closest to us—parents of kids who’ve attended our summer camps, former board members, volunteers, and published authors," Lathan noted. "Many have made donations, and others have offered to host fundraising events and share our story on their social media. We welcome all those who want to continue Thurber House’s legacy of laughter, learning, and literature by donating and sharing our story with their friends and families."

A "campaign update" message on the Thurber House website echoed this positive development.

“Everyone, THANK YOU for your incredible outpouring of support and love since we launched this fundraising campaign,” the message read. “Whether you've donated ????, signed up for a 2025 program ✍️, inquired about renting our multipurpose space ????, or sent us a kind message and well wishes, we're left with happy tears by your overwhelming desire to keep Thurber House around for many years to come. ????”

Many donors left comments along with their financial contributions.

“Your work is important,” one donor offered. “You accomplish it with vision and enthusiasm, despite difficult times.”

“The Thurber House is dear to my heart,” another stated.

“I have been a fan of Thurber’s writing since I was first exposed to it,” wrote an enthusiastic backer. “Happy to help others find it and support aspiring writers.”

Thurber House is based in the restored 1873 home of American humorist James Thurber. Located at 77 Jefferson Ave. in Columbus, the organization hosts programs that include author events, writing workshops for all ages, and the prestigious Thurber Prize for American Humor.

Visitors can typically tour the historic house on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m., holidays impacting the schedule are noted on the website.

For more information or to contribute to the “Future 40” campaign, visit Thurber House's website.