The Tocker Foundation was established by Phillip and Olive Tocker to further their philanthropic interests. After years of supporting a broad range of causes, the Foundation identified a unique need in small, rural Texas libraries serving populations of 12,000 or less. Consequently, the foundation now focuses on partnering with these community libraries to address their specific needs, enriching local communities through improved library services.
The grant program by the Tocker Foundation aims to help libraries, particularly in preserving local history, through digitization efforts. It emphasizes the importance of safeguarding historical documents and newspapers, especially those vulnerable to natural disasters. A highlighted initiative involves the partnership with the University of North Texas' Digital Newspaper Program to digitize and make accessible historical newspapers via the Portal to Texas History. Applications for the digitization grant are welcomed year-round, reflecting the foundation's commitment to continuous support for libraries in need.